A significant political development is reshaping the landscape in Senegal following the resignation of National Assembly President El Malick Ndiaye on Sunday. This departure could potentially clear the path for former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to assume leadership of the Parliament, just days after his unexpected dismissal by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

In a public statement shared on Facebook, El Malick Ndiaye clarified that his decision was motivated by his institutional vision and the paramount interests of the nation, opting not to elaborate further. A staunch ally of Sonko, Ndiaye had presided over the Assembly since the resounding victory of the Pastef party in the 2024 legislative elections, where the party secured an impressive 130 out of 165 seats.

Members of Parliament have been summoned for a plenary session on Tuesday to consider Ousmane Sonko’s reinstatement as a deputy, followed by the election of a new National Assembly president. Such a move would significantly amplify the influence of the Pastef leader, who continues to command substantial popularity among a considerable segment of the Senegalese populace.

The preceding Friday saw President Bassirou Diomaye Faye terminate his Prime Minister’s tenure, signaling a political divergence between the two figures who had jointly ascended to power in April 2024. Having been barred from contesting the presidential election due to a judicial conviction, Ousmane Sonko had wholeheartedly backed Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s candidacy under the rallying cry, « Diomaye Moy Sonko ».

Over recent months, the underlying tensions between the two leaders had become increasingly public. Sonko notably voiced concerns regarding the head of state’s perceived lack of assertiveness and criticized the slow pace of legal proceedings initiated against officials from the previous Macky Sall administration, who faced accusations of corruption.

Conversely, President Faye expressed reservations about Sonko’s burgeoning influence within the corridors of power and the dominant party. The rift deepened considerably following further criticisms articulated by the former Prime Minister within the National Assembly concerning the management of political funds.

Despite his removal from the government, Ousmane Sonko maintains a formidable political presence. Hundreds of his supporters converged outside his Dakar residence last Friday evening, effectively transforming his dismissal into a powerful display of popular backing.

President Faye now faces the critical task of appointing a new Prime Minister, a selection that will require the approval of deputies amidst an increasingly volatile political climate.