The Senegalese political landscape is experiencing a new wave of transformation following the resignation of National Assembly President El Malick Ndiaye on Sunday. This departure could pave the way for former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to assume leadership of the Parliament, just days after his own dismissal by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
In a statement shared on Facebook, El Malick Ndiaye cited institutional vision and the nation’s best interests as reasons for his decision, without elaborating further. A staunch ally of Sonko, he had held the presidency of the Assembly since the Pastef party’s decisive victory in the 2024 legislative elections, where the political formation secured 130 out of 165 seats.
Deputies have been summoned for a plenary session on Tuesday to consider Ousmane Sonko’s reinstatement as a member of parliament, followed by the election of a new National Assembly president. This prospective move would significantly bolster the influence of the Pastef leader, who continues to command strong popularity among a substantial segment of the Senegalese populace.
On Friday, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye terminated his Prime Minister’s tenure, marking a notable political estrangement between the two men who had jointly ascended to power in April 2024. Barred from contesting the presidential election due to a judicial conviction, Ousmane Sonko had subsequently endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s candidacy under the rallying cry, « Diomaye Moy Sonko ».
Public tensions between the two prominent leaders had been escalating for several months. Sonko had notably criticized the head of state for a perceived lack of authority and denounced the slow pace of proceedings initiated against officials from the former Macky Sall administration, who faced allegations of corruption.
Conversely, President Faye had expressed concern over Sonko’s increasing prominence within the government and the ruling party. The rift deepened further after the former Prime Minister voiced new criticisms in the National Assembly regarding the management of political funds.
Despite his removal from the government, Ousmane Sonko maintains considerable political sway. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside his Dakar residence on Friday evening, transforming his dismissal into a powerful demonstration of popular backing.
President Faye is now tasked with appointing a new Prime Minister, a choice that will require parliamentary approval in what has become an exceptionally uncertain political climate.