Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s leadership challenge in Senegal amid political tensions

The political landscape in Senegal is experiencing unprecedented turbulence following the sudden dismissal of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in May 2025. Just days later, Sonko made a dramatic return to the national stage by securing a landslide victory in the parliamentary elections, becoming President of the National Assembly—the second-highest position in the country.

This unexpected turn of events has raised critical questions about the future of governance in Senegal. With Sonko’s party, Pastef, still holding a parliamentary majority, the rift between the two leaders poses significant challenges for President Faye’s ability to implement much-needed economic reforms. The nation, grappling with deep-rooted economic struggles, now faces a leadership dilemma that could reshape its political trajectory.

To dissect this evolving power dynamic, a panel of distinguished experts gathered for an in-depth discussion:

• Mamoudou Ibra Kane, a seasoned journalist and author whose work includes the book Troisième alternance au Sénégal : mon double regard, explores the historical and political nuances of Senegal’s governance.
• Karine Oriot, a seasoned geopolitical analyst, provides insights into the broader implications of this political shift.
• Moussa Diaw, a retired professor of political science from the University of Gaston Berger in Saint-Louis, specializes in international relations and offers a scholarly perspective on the unfolding situation.

The debate delves into the complexities of Senegal’s political future, examining whether President Faye can navigate these challenges while advancing reforms in a nation beset by economic hardship.