A wave of resignations from key figures within Pastef has exposed deep divisions within Senegal’s political landscape, following the establishment of a new presidential party. Former allies of Ousmane Sonko, including long-serving cadres and youth leaders, have abandoned the movement in growing numbers.
From isolated departures to a mass exodus
What began as scattered resignations has rapidly escalated into a full-blown crisis. High-ranking officials, agency directors, and grassroots supporters—once the backbone of Pastef—have begun stepping down in droves. The accelerating trend points to an unbridgeable rift between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko, who currently serves as both Speaker of the National Assembly and party leader.
This partnership, forged in the fires of last year’s historic political shift, had long been hailed as the cornerstone of Senegal’s new leadership. Yet behind the scenes, tensions had been simmering for months. The final break came in May 2026, when Ousmane Sonko was abruptly removed from his post as Prime Minister—a move widely seen as the culmination of a growing power struggle within the administration.
Despite the reshuffle, Sonko retained his leadership of Pastef while President Faye moved swiftly to consolidate control over state institutions. The first major sign of rebellion came earlier this month when Minister Moussa Bala Fofana resigned from his third term at the Urban Planning ministry. Sonko had publicly criticized ministers for failing to align with party directives, though Fofana denied acting on presidential orders and instead expressed his enduring respect for his former mentor.
A constitutional shift fuels the divide
On July 3rd, President Faye took a decisive step forward by announcing plans to launch a new presidential party aimed at unifying political forces. The move has only deepened perceptions of an irreparable split between the presidency and the party that once carried it to power. Meanwhile, the pro-Faye coalition “Diomaye Président” has intensified efforts to onboard new members and build a broader base of support.
