Senegal’s political landscape has been thrown into further uncertainty following El Malick Ndiaye’s decision to step down as President of the National Assembly. In a statement shared on Facebook, Ndiaye—longtime ally of Ousmane Sonko—cited “personal reasons” rooted in the “superior interests of the nation,” offering no further clarification.

His resignation comes on the heels of a dramatic shake-up in government, with the President of the Republic, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, abruptly terminating Sonko’s premiership just two days prior.

Could Sonko rise to the Assembly’s helm?

With Ndiaye’s departure, the path is now clear for Ousmane Sonko to potentially assume the Assembly presidency. The Pastef leader remains the dominant figure in the presidential majority, with his party commanding 130 out of 165 parliamentary seats—a result secured in the November 2024 legislative elections.

Sonko, who was barred from running in last year’s presidential race due to a prior conviction, had previously rallied behind Bassirou Diomaye Faye under the influential slogan “Diomaye Moy Sonko,” propelling Faye to the presidency.

A presidency under strain

Tensions between the two leaders had been simmering for months, culminating in an open rift that came to a head on Friday evening. This political crisis raises serious questions about President Faye’s ability to govern effectively and advance his reform agenda amid Senegal’s ongoing economic challenges.

The coming days are likely to prove pivotal for the future trajectory of Senegal’s government.