Political tensions within Senegal’s ruling party, Pastef, have intensified as debates over possible disciplinary measures against President Bassirou Diomaye Faye gain momentum. While some party members push for his removal, Ousmane Sonko, president of the National Assembly, has deferred the matter to the party’s governing bodies, emphasizing a structured and rule-based approach.
In a recent interview, Sonko underscored that any decision regarding Faye’s status would follow the party’s established procedures. “The timing and outcome will be determined when the time comes,” he stated, highlighting the importance of adhering to internal regulations. “This is not about me—it’s about the party’s institutions making the final call.”
The Pastef leader clarified that no expulsion process is currently underway, stating, “We are not there yet.”
avoiding moral judgments in political disputes
Sonko dismissed accusations of “betrayal” leveled at President Faye, opting instead to frame the conflict in political terms. “Labels like betrayal belong to moral discourse, not politics,” he asserted. He expressed frustration over unfulfilled campaign promises, noting a lack of commitment to key commitments made to the Senegalese people.
“I believe certain promises to the public have not been honored, and there’s no genuine effort to do so,” he explained. “As for betrayal, I leave that to personal and moral interpretations.”
growing rifts within the ruling coalition
The remarks come amid deepening divisions within the Senegalese government. Party cadres and activists have accused President Faye of straying from the core ideals that propelled Pastef to power. Despite the mounting pressure, Sonko has refrained from endorsing immediate action, prioritizing internal party mechanisms over hasty decisions.
