Senegal’s new government forms without full pastef backing

Senegal: why Pastef declined to fully join the new government

The political landscape in Senegal is buzzing following the unveiling of the new government. Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lô announced his 30-minister cabinet on Monday evening. Notably absent from this new team are prominent figures from the Pastef party, as well as close associates of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.

Pastef, which holds a majority in the National Assembly, has cited “points of disagreement” as the primary reason for its limited involvement. This decision sparks critical questions: What precisely are these points of contention that prevented a full Pastef participation? Furthermore, how can we explain the inclusion of five Pastef members in the new government despite the party’s official stance? A key concern now is whether these ministers face potential sanctions or even expulsion from the party for their decision to join the cabinet.