Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has publicly criticized President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, marking a rare instance of open dissent within the country’s top leadership.
Supporters of PM Sonko continue to denounce the president’s attitude, with some going as far as to remind him that he owes his presidency to Ousmane Sonko.
Speaking at a Pastef party meeting, Sonko accused the president of lacking authority and failing to defend him amid public attacks. He claimed that the presidency is not doing enough to support government reforms and expressed frustration over limited power to govern effectively.
Sonko, who had designated Faye as the party’s presidential candidate in 2024 after his own legal disqualification, now appears to question the leadership dynamics. “I am calling on President Faye to assume his responsibilities—this laissez-faire cannot continue,” Sonko said.
In a speech on 10 July, Ousmane Sonko argued that Senegal had one problem: a lack of authority.
President Faye says he still considered Ousmane Sonko to be his friend.
The relationship between the two men had long been perceived as a key element to guarantee a united front at the head of the state.
Senegal has been on headlines since the election of youngest President in Africa and who since, has been performing.
