The President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has announced a new government cabinet amid rising political tensions, after his former close ally and ex-Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko refused to participate in the administration.
The development highlights a deepening rift between Faye and Sonko, two figures who were once political partners within the ruling coalition but have recently fallen out over governance and policy disagreements.
According to reports, Sonko’s party, which holds a strong majority in parliament, decided to boycott participation in the new cabinet, raising concerns about possible political gridlock in the country.
Despite the boycott, the president still formed a 30-member government that includes a few members linked to Sonko’s political camp, though several senior allies were excluded from key positions.
The new cabinet was announced shortly after the dismissal of the previous prime minister, a move that also led to the dissolution of the former government and triggered further uncertainty within the ruling party.
Political analysts say the crisis reflects growing instability within the governing coalition, which had previously been seen as united following the 2024 elections. The disagreement now threatens to slow down key economic reforms, especially as the country continues negotiations with international financial institutions over debt and funding support.
Sonko, now an influential parliamentary figure, is expected to continue playing a strong role in shaping opposition or legislative resistance to the new government’s agenda.
Observers warn that the standoff between the president and his former ally could reshape Senegal’s political landscape in the coming months.