With our correspondent in Dakar, Léa-Lisa Westerhoff

“A dismissal does not equate to political disgrace,” declared Ousmane Sonko on Tuesday, asserting his “popular legitimacy.” In less than four days, the former Prime Minister made a bold comeback, securing the leadership of the legislative body.

In a speech aimed at bridging divides with the executive branch, Sonko emphasized there would be no “gridlock,” no “personal vendetta,” and no “institutional chaos.” Instead, he pledged “strict oversight of government actions” and the use of “all available checks and balances” in case of disagreements.

An “unprecedented” cohabitation

Political analyst Ellimane Haby Kane, head of Legs Africa think tank, describes this as an “unprecedented” cohabitation. He notes that while Sonko presents a diplomatic front, his true aim is to “control the executive.”

The analyst underscores that tensions persist, particularly over the president’s failure to consult the Pastef party on the appointment of the Prime Minister and future cabinet members.

By Tuesday evening, a Pastef statement revealed initial contacts between the presidency and party members regarding government formation—only to set conditions for participation.