The Diomaye-Sonko partnership lasted barely two years. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has now removed Ousmane Sonko from the Prime Minister’s office. Sonko, who now presides over the National Assembly, was also reaffirmed as leader of the Pastef party—the majority force in Parliament yet absent from the government. How did this rupture occur? Can a functional cohabitation between the president and the assembly leader still be achieved? And will these political clashes overshadow the pressing needs of Senegalese citizens?

From partnership to rivalry

The unexpected split between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko marks a turning point in Senegal’s political landscape. After assuming office in April 2024, the president initially relied on Sonko’s influence to secure a parliamentary majority. However, the alliance quickly unraveled. Sonko, a charismatic opposition figure turned assembly leader, found himself excluded from the government despite his party’s dominance.

His appointment as National Assembly president—and later his reelection as head of the Pastef party—reflects a strategic shift. Yet, the absence of government participation raises questions about the future of collaboration between executive and legislative branches. The tension between the two leaders underscores deeper divisions within the ruling coalition and the broader political class.

Cohabitation under strain

Cohabitation—a system where the president and prime minister or assembly leader belong to opposing political forces—is not uncommon in democracies. However, its success depends on mutual respect and shared priorities. In Senegal’s case, the rift between Faye and Sonko threatens to derail key policies, including economic reforms and social programs.

Critics warn that the escalating rivalry could paralyze governance. With the Pastef controlling Parliament but excluded from government, legislative processes may become gridlocked. Meanwhile, citizens face growing uncertainty over critical issues like job creation, education, and security.

What’s next for Senegal?

The coming months will determine whether this political standoff can be resolved. Potential outcomes include:

• Negotiated compromise: Faye and Sonko may seek a truce to stabilize governance, allowing key policies to advance.
• Institutional showdown: If tensions persist, the president could dissolve Parliament or reshuffle the government, risking further instability.
• Public backlash: Prolonged conflict could erode trust in leadership, fueling protests or shifting voter sentiment ahead of future elections.

The situation remains fluid, with implications for Senegal’s democratic stability and international standing.

Panelists:

• Abdoulaye Tine, Senior Advisor and Spokesperson for the Presidency of the Republic.
• Amadou Ba, Former Minister of Culture, Member of Parliament, and National Secretary for Communication at the Pastef party.
• Babacar Ndiaye, Political Analyst and Research Director at the Wathi think tank.