The President of Senegal’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, took the opportunity during the inauguration of the Pastef party headquarters in Touba to deliver a sharp critique of President Diomaye Faye. The event, held 194 kilometers east of Dakar, became a platform for Sonko to voice his growing disillusionment with the current administration.
Sonko’s harsh words for president faye
In a candid address, Sonko described President Faye as “a puppet and easily manipulated”, raising concerns about his leadership style. “May God protect us from a timid president,” he declared. “This is a disaster. He allows himself to be swayed by political newcomers. Even the opposition manipulates him by convincing him he controls the defense and security forces and could secure a second term.”
From ally to critic
Sonko, who previously backed Faye’s 2024 presidential bid, now claims that with the benefit of hindsight, he realizes the President was secretly building his own political faction within the ruling party. “He was working behind the scenes to create his party within the party,” Sonko alleged. “This was his mission as Secretary-General and Coordinator of party cadres.” Once elected, Faye allegedly believed he could reclaim control over the majority of party members after their separation. “Unfortunately for him, no one followed,” Sonko concluded.
The tension underscores a widening rift within Senegal’s political landscape, with Sonko’s remarks highlighting deepening divisions in the ruling coalition.