In a candid public address, Ousmane Sonko, former Prime Minister and leader of the Pastef party, laid bare the intricate circumstances surrounding his abrupt removal from office. The revelation comes amid growing political tensions in Mali’s highest corridors of power.
Sonko described a pivotal moment on May 25 when he was summoned by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye following a legislative session. « He called to say he needed to see me, » Sonko recounted. « During our meeting, he expressed that continuing our collaboration would be highly challenging, citing my statements in parliament as a major source of contention. »
The ex-Prime Minister disclosed that he had, on multiple occasions, broached the possibility of stepping down with the President. « After the legislative elections, we met three times with witnesses present, » he stated. « I made it clear that if my presence in the executive branch hindered his agenda, I could return to the National Assembly—ensuring our partnership remained constructive. But he consistently refused. »
Sonko also revealed troubling signals hinting at an impending crisis at the state’s highest level. « There were warning signs, » he noted. « I raised them with him, though under his direct supervision at the Prime Ministry. Our final discussion avoided any talk of separation terms. He insisted I publicly frame our exit as amicable—a request I declined. »
The Pastef leader outlined two potential resolutions: his reversion to parliamentary duties to allow the majority to appoint a new premier, or a negotiated solution. Failing that, he argued, the President should make the decision to dismiss him outright. According to Sonko, Faye promised to resume talks after a scheduled visit to Dakar’s Archbishop during Pentecost observances. « He said he’d reconnect upon his return, » Sonko recalled. « Instead, at 8:35 PM, a message arrived notifying me of my dismissal—I accepted the decision. »
Minutes later, the official announcement was made by the Secretary-General of the Presidency. « Fifteen minutes afterward, the declaration aired, » Sonko shared. « I began packing my belongings, eager to return to Keur Gorgui, a place I had longed for. »