The West African nation faces mounting uncertainty as El Malick Ndiaye declared his departure from the Assembly presidency in a Facebook statement. The move, framed as a personal choice driven by concern for the nation’s higher interests, came without further elaboration.

This dramatic development unfolded merely two days after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye removed Sonko from office, intensifying an already volatile political climate.

Sonko poised to take the helm?

Ndiaye’s resignation clears the path for Ousmane Sonko to potentially assume the Assembly’s leadership. The opposition leader remains the dominant force in parliament, with his party, Pastef, holding 130 of 165 seats following the 2024 legislative elections.

Excluded from the 2024 presidential race due to a prior judicial ruling, Sonko had previously backed Faye’s candidacy under the campaign slogan Diomaye Moy Sonko, which propelled Faye to victory.

Government under pressure

Months of escalating friction between the two leaders culminated in a public rupture confirmed late Friday. The political schism raises urgent questions about President Faye’s ability to govern and advance critical reforms amid Senegal’s economic challenges.

The coming days may prove pivotal in determining the future trajectory of Senegal’s leadership.