Ousmane Sonko urges dialogue to prevent Senegal’s crisis escalation

Following his dismissal as Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, leader of Senegal’s ruling party, has called for a constructive dialogue to steer the nation away from potential crisis. As tensions rise over the newly formed government led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Sonko emphasizes the urgency of open exchanges to safeguard the country’s stability.

Sonko’s stance on the new government

Ousmane Sonko, who was removed from his position as Prime Minister, has pledged support for the new administration while stressing the need for transparent communication. He urged President Faye to engage in meaningful dialogue to prevent the country from slipping back into turmoil. This is Sonko’s first public address since his dismissal on May 22, following irreconcilable differences—particularly concerning the management of Senegal’s substantial debt.

During a press briefing in Dakar, Sonko revealed that President Faye had cited “certain recent positions that caused discomfort and posed challenges.” The newly appointed government, consisting of 30 members, was sworn in on Monday but has been notably absent from Sonko’s endorsement.

Criticism of government formation

Sonko did not hold back in his criticism, stating, “A country is serious business! A government is serious business! I get the impression that President Diomaye doesn’t understand what it takes to form a government—it’s not something done lightly.” He further described the situation as “unprecedented,” highlighting the absence of a solid political foundation in the new administration. “Yesterday, we witnessed a government lacking political legitimacy,” he asserted, emphasizing the lack of structured support for President Faye.

Sonko went on to describe the current political landscape as a “cohabitation,” noting that the President lacks a single parliamentary seat. “Whether he likes it or not, we are in a cohabitation scenario. He doesn’t hold all the powers. He needs to come down from his pedestal and engage in dialogue,” Sonko remarked.

Parliamentary dominance and potential actions

The Pastef party, led by Sonko, commands a significant majority in the National Assembly with 130 out of 165 seats. Despite this influence, Sonko clarified that while his party could dismantle the government within 72 hours if desired, they would not resort to a vote of no-confidence. Instead, they aim to support the administration while advocating for political prudence.

“Let’s prioritize the higher interests of this nation,” Sonko urged. “If we descend into a crisis of dissolution or censure, no investor will set foot in Senegal.” He continued, “I appeal for intelligent and constructive political dialogue. We must avoid reliving past conflicts.”

Senegal experienced severe unrest between 2021 and 2024, marked by violent crackdowns on protests under the previous administration of former President Macky Sall. The unrest resulted in numerous fatalities, predominantly young people killed by gunfire.

Sonko concluded with a call for calm, warning against provocations targeting his supporters. “Peace requires two willing parties,” he emphasized, urging the youth to remain composed during this critical period.