Sonko challenges the legitimacy of Faye’s new government

Addressing the press in Dakar during his first public statement since his dismissal on May 22, Ousmane Sonko did not mince words. “A nation is serious business, and so is its government,” he declared, sharply criticizing the newly formed executive led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. According to Sonko, the government lacks “any structured political legitimacy”, citing the absence of broad-based support in the current political landscape. With the Pastef party holding a commanding majority of 130 out of 165 seats in the National Assembly, he emphasized that President Faye must acknowledge the existing power dynamics before proceeding with policy decisions.

Pastef commits to stability despite criticism

Despite his harsh remarks, Sonko clarified that his party will not pursue efforts to topple the government. “In 72 hours, if Pastef wished, this government could fall. But we will not seek its downfall. Instead, we will support it,” he stated. His emphasis on stability reflects a broader concern: maintaining investor confidence and preventing a return to the political turbulence that gripped Senegal between 2021 and 2024. “We must avoid plunging the country back into what it has endured,” he added, urging a return to calm and constructive governance.

A call for intelligent political dialogue

Sonko framed his outreach as a necessary step toward “smart and constructive political dialogue”. While acknowledging past provocations targeting his supporters, he called for restraint among Senegal’s youth, stressing that “peace requires participation from both sides.” The gesture underscores a fragile but critical moment in Senegal’s political trajectory, where cooperation may hold the key to long-term stability.