Africa. In an effort to dispel rumors of tensions with his prime minister, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye affirmed that there are no personal disputes between him and his political ally, Ousmane Sonko.
Speaking during a meeting with members of the ruling Pastef party’s political bureau at the presidential palace, Faye stressed that “Sonko would never disrespect me, and I would never disrespect him,” a statement widely seen as a message of reassurance to the public following days of speculation about friction between the two leaders.
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko recently resumed his duties and took part in last Wednesday’s cabinet meeting after a brief absence, which he officially attributed to the need for rest. His return underscored the continuing coordination between the presidency and the government, despite what observers describe as differences in vision.
Dispute Over Coalition Leadership
Tensions reportedly emerged after a reshuffle in the leadership of the ruling coalition, when President Faye appointed former minister and current opposition figure Aminata Touré to head the alliance — a choice Sonko had opposed, favoring Aïda Mbodj instead.
Faye justified his decision as an effort to promote “political openness,” while Sonko’s supporters argued that Mbodj was more aligned with the party’s ideological line.
Mounting Economic Pressures
The political rift comes as Senegal faces mounting economic challenges, following revelations last April of hidden debts exceeding $7 billion, which sparked controversy over the new government’s fiscal management and priorities.
Analysts believe that the relationship between the president and his prime minister will remain under close public scrutiny, warning that any fracture within the ruling alliance could directly impact the administration’s ability to confront the economic and social crises gripping the country.
