Political rift between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko fuels reform debates

Once united to prevent the President from exiting the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, despite earlier promises to reform the institution, the alliance between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko now faces scrutiny over their shifting priorities. What began as a shared commitment to action has gradually given way to a narrative of unfulfilled reforms and overlooked commitments.

Their initial unity, forged to block a controversial judicial reform, now contrasts sharply with today’s calls for transparency. Promises to abolish the amnesty law were left unfulfilled, while political funds—unregulated during their tenure—remained untouched, despite the means to formalize them through a parliamentary majority.

Shared responsibilities under scrutiny

Their failure to act on declared reforms, including the declaration of assets—a critical anti-corruption measure endorsed by the United Nations and the African Union—has raised questions about their commitment to governance. The political funds they managed remain unregulated, even as legislative tools to enforce oversight were readily available after securing a parliamentary majority.

From reform pledges to political maneuvers

Observers note a stark shift in priorities. While once aligned to resist judicial reform, the same leaders now push for changes they had ample time to implement. The National Assembly, a pillar of the Republic, now risks being overshadowed by political posturing rather than substantive policy debates.

Thierno Bocoum
President of AGIR-LES LEADERS

By Claire Mvondo — Security and State Policy Expert