Senegal’s political landscape shifts as Pastef excluded from new government

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal has unveiled a new cabinet lineup that notably omits representation from the Pastef party, led by his former ally and ex-Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. The exclusion follows weeks of escalating tensions between the two figures, culminating in Sonko’s recent removal from office and subsequent election as Speaker of the National Assembly.

The announcement arrives just 12 days after President Faye dismissed Sonko, marking a decisive break in their long-standing political partnership. The move has plunged the nation into a fresh wave of uncertainty, compounding existing economic woes that have gripped the country since the revelation of a debt underreporting scandal in 2024.

Sonko’s party, Pastef, confirmed its exclusion from the new government through an official statement on social media. The communiqué cited “disagreements” between Sonko and President Faye regarding the allocation of key ministerial roles and the strategic direction of the executive branch. “Despite confirmed convergences during our meeting this morning, fundamental disagreements persist—particularly concerning the role of the majority within the executive framework,” the statement read.

Following internal consultations, Pastef submitted revised proposals to the President, which were ultimately rejected. “In light of these developments, PASTEF – Les Patriotes will not participate in the upcoming government and will not be represented by any minister,” the party declared.

Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lô, who replaced Sonko as Prime Minister, presented the new cabinet list featuring 30 ministers—noticeably absent several prominent figures from the ruling party who served in the previous administration.

The political rift emerges against a backdrop of severe economic strain. Senegal’s debt surged to 132% of GDP by the end of 2024 after the discovery of underreported liabilities by the prior administration. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has since suspended a $1.8 billion loan program, though talks are scheduled to resume next week with hopes of reaching a critical agreement by June 30.

Finance Minister Amadou Ba recently assured that negotiations are progressing, emphasizing the government’s commitment to restoring fiscal stability amid the unfolding political and economic challenges.