The ongoing political tensions within Senegal’s ruling party, Pastef, continue to dominate national discourse. While some party members have called for President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s removal, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly, has deferred the matter to the party’s governing bodies, stressing their structured decision-making process.
In a recent interview, Sonko emphasized the importance of adhering to the party’s internal rules and procedures before any potential exclusion could even be considered. « This decision will be made when the time comes, » he stated, highlighting the need for a thorough examination of grievances through the proper channels. « The party belongs to its structures, not to individuals. The competent bodies will evaluate the situation at the appropriate moment. »
Sonko also clarified that no formal proceedings regarding this issue are currently underway. « We are not there yet, » he noted, indicating that the debate remains at a preliminary stage.
Sonko avoids moral accusations amid political disagreements
When pressed on claims of « betrayal » leveled against President Faye, Sonko chose to frame the dispute in political, rather than moral, terms. « Betrayal is a moral concept, not a political one, » he explained. « I prefer to discuss this matter within the political sphere. »
He went on to highlight concerns over unfulfilled campaign promises, suggesting a lack of commitment to implement key pledges made to the Senegalese people. « I believe certain commitments to the Senegalese public have not been honored, and there appears to be no genuine effort to do so, » he remarked. « I leave moral judgments to others. »
Deepening divisions within Senegal’s leadership
The remarks come amid escalating tensions between various factions within the ruling coalition. For weeks, Pastef members have accused President Faye of straying from the party’s original political vision that propelled it to power.
Despite growing criticism, Sonko has urged restraint, emphasizing the importance of following the party’s established protocols. He has ruled out any hasty decisions concerning the head of state, reaffirming his confidence in the party’s internal mechanisms to address the situation.