Ousmane Sonko urges political dialogue with President Faye to maintain stability in Sénégal

Ousmane Sonko questions the lack of a political foundation for the new cabinet

In his first public appearance since being removed from his post on May 22, Ousmane Sonko delivered a sharp critique of the government recently appointed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. During a press briefing held in Dakar, the leader of Pastef emphasized that governing a nation is a serious endeavor, arguing that the executive team formed on Monday lacks a “structured political legitimacy.” He pointed out that the head of state must acknowledge the current institutional power dynamics, as Pastef holds a dominant position in the National Assembly with 130 of the 165 seats.

Pastef commits to supporting the executive branch

Despite his pointed criticisms, Ousmane Sonko made it clear that his party would not seek a motion of censure against the government. He remarked that while Pastef possesses the legislative strength to collapse the government within 72 hours if it so chose, the party will instead offer its support. The head of the National Assembly underscored the importance of maintaining national stability to reassure international investors and prevent Sénégal from entering another cycle of political volatility.

A call for constructive engagement to ensure peace

Addressing the visible rift between the two former allies, Sonko called for an “intelligent and constructive political dialogue.” He expressed a strong desire to prevent the country from sliding back into the unrest seen between 2021 and 2024. While he condemned what he described as “provocations” targeting his supporters, he also urged the youth to remain calm, noting that achieving peace is a mutual responsibility that requires the cooperation of both parties.