In a press conference held on June 2, Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party and former Prime Minister of Senegal, revealed the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shaped the formation of the new government led by Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo. His remarks shed light on perceived tensions between party structures and the presidency.
Alleged bypassing of party institutions
Sonko criticized what he described as an attempt by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to sideline Pastef’s governing bodies during consultations for the new cabinet. He pointed out that several outgoing ministers were contacted individually by the head of state—a process he argued violated the party’s organizational principles.
« You cannot engage members of Pastef in isolation, » Sonko stated. « We are a structured party with clear governing bodies. Calling individuals directly undermines our collective decision-making process. » According to him, this approach was part of a deliberate strategy to weaken the party’s influence.
Political weight and internal challenges
Sonko also addressed claims made by President Faye regarding his own political standing within the party. He recounted a conversation where the president asserted his greater representativeness within Pastef.
« I told him if he believes he is more representative, he should organize a rally without me, » Sonko recounted. « Let’s start with his own commune, Ndiaganiao, which he cannot even win. His claims hold no weight. »
Failed mediation efforts
The former Prime Minister claimed that outgoing ministers had advised the new Prime Minister, Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo, to engage directly with Pastef’s leadership before finalizing appointments. However, he asserted that these recommendations were ignored.
« Outgoing ministers urged Al Aminou Lo to consult with me and designated party leaders, but the president refused, » Sonko explained. « I even called the president to propose that consultations go through Pastef, but he declined. Days later, he continued contacting party members who ultimately refused to cooperate without party approval. »
Behind the scenes reconciliation
Sonko disclosed details of his meeting with President Faye, which he said was facilitated after mediation by Prime Minister Lo and others. The encounter took place late on the evening of June 1, when the president requested Sonko’s presence at the Presidential Palace. Initially unable to attend, Sonko agreed to meet the following morning at 8:00 AM.
