Senegal's Political Clash: PM Sonko Dismissed, National Assembly Presidency Next?

Senegal's political landscape shifted dramatically over the weekend with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's dismissal of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. This move signals a significant rupture between the two leaders, stemming from escalating political tensions and increasingly open disagreements within the executive branch.

Following the Prime Minister's ouster, the President of the National Assembly, Malick Ndiaye, announced his resignation. This action is widely interpreted as a strategic maneuver to pave the way for the former Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, to reclaim his seat in parliament and potentially assume leadership of the legislative body. The parliament is scheduled to convene in an extraordinary session on May 26, 2026, to elect its new president.

Sonko, a prominent figure in the ruling PASTEF party, which holds a significant majority in the 165-seat National Assembly with 130 deputies, is the strong favorite to be elected as the new Assembly president. This position would place him as the second-highest official in the state and the constitutional successor to the president. The move appears to be a calculated step for Sonko to remain influential in Senegalese politics and decision-making circles.

The political maneuvering highlights a growing rift between President Faye, who seems intent on asserting his own authority and moving out from the shadow of his former mentor, and Sonko. While this scenario could allow Sonko to maintain a powerful role, it also raises concerns about potential institutional crises. If Sonko secures the presidency of the National Assembly, his control over the legislative branch could be used to influence or block government actions, further complicating the political dynamic in Senegal.