Senegal president sacks prime minister Ousmane Sonko

In a televised address from the Republic Palace in Dakar, Oumar Samba Ba, Secretary-General of the Presidency, announced that Ousmane Sonko was no longer serving as Prime Minister of Senegal. The decree also terminated the mandates of all government members.

According to the official statement, “By Decree No. 2026-1128 of May 22, 2026, President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye has terminated the functions of Mr. Ousmane Sonko as Prime Minister and, consequently, those of all ministers and secretaries of state within the government. Members of the outgoing cabinet are tasked with handling current affairs until further notice.”

The decision follows months of escalating tensions between President Faye and his former mentor, Ousmane Sonko. Sonko, a prominent opposition figure against former President Macky Sall, had been barred from running in the 2024 election. He subsequently endorsed Faye as his successor, who went on to win the presidency.

Further details regarding the political reshuffle and its implications are expected in the coming days.