The alliance that propelled Bassirou Diomaye Faye to Senegal’s presidency has fractured under the weight of political ambition and strategic disagreement. Less than two years after their historic victory, the partnership with Ousmane Sonko has collapsed, culminating in the dismissal of the Prime Minister and a dramatic reshuffle in the country’s leadership.
The rupture became official this weekend when Ousmane Sonko was reinstated as the leader of the Pastef party during its first national congress since its founding. This leadership change signals a turning point in Senegalese politics, raising pressing questions about who now commands the loyalty of the young, reform-minded electorate that brought change to Dakar.
The reorganization leaves the president governing without his former deputy, prompting speculation about the future direction of the nation. With the political landscape in flux, analysts warn that the split could destabilize the government unless a new consensus is forged. As the country looks ahead to the 2029 elections, the realignment within Pastef will determine whether the reform agenda survives—or if new alliances will reshape Senegal’s trajectory.