In Dakar, Ousmane Sonko, former Prime Minister and leader of the Pastef party, addressed reporters on June 2, detailing why his party declined an invitation to join the newly formed government announced the previous day by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s administration.

The refusal stems from fundamental disagreements between Sonko and the president over critical policy priorities and ministerial appointments. Sonko emphasized that the demands for transparency and accountability in governance were non-negotiable for the Pastef.

Key sticking points included the management of public debt, the implementation of price controls on subsidized goods, and the administration of justice. Sonko expressed dissatisfaction with the president’s responses, describing them as inadequate and lacking concrete commitments.

Sonko’s assessment of the government proposal

“The president acknowledged no prior agreements with the IMF regarding debt restructuring,” Sonko stated. “On purchasing power, he vaguely suggested applying price transparency where possible on subsidized products. As for justice, he claimed Senegal has the best judicial system in the world.” Sonko dismissed these responses as “lackluster” and insufficient to justify participation in the government.

Regarding the allocation of ministerial portfolios, Sonko made it clear that the Pastef would not accept a token presence. “We will not join a government where we cannot secure at least half of the key ministerial positions,” he asserted.

While acknowledging that five ministers in the new cabinet are affiliated with the Pastef, Sonko clarified that the party does not recognize them as legitimate representatives. He warned that the opposition would not initiate a no-confidence motion unless the government took provocative actions first.