Senegal’s National Assembly is currently reviewing the potential reinstatement of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko as a deputy on Tuesday, May 26. This pivotal move could pave the way for him to assume leadership of the Parliament. However, the opposition bloc strongly condemns the ruling majority, alleging an attempt to orchestrate an «institutional coup d’état» within the West African nation’s political system.
A rapid ascent following his dismissal
Following his dismissal by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye last Friday, after months of escalating tensions within the government, Ousmane Sonko appears poised for a swift return to the political forefront in Senegal. The Parliament is scheduled to convene this Tuesday morning to deliberate on his «reintegration» as a deputy, a necessary step before electing a new President for the National Assembly. On Sunday, El Malick Ndiaye, a close associate of Sonko and the incumbent president of the institution, tendered his resignation, effectively clearing the path for the former head of government. Sonko’s Pastef party commands a significant majority in the assembly, holding 130 out of 165 seats.
The opposition contests the procedure
Nevertheless, the leading opposition coalition asserts that this proposed reintegration fails to adhere to established institutional protocols. During a press briefing on Monday, Deputy Aïssata Tall Sall vehemently condemned the situation, characterizing it as an «institutional coup d’état» and an aggressive maneuver by the presidential majority. She argued that Ousmane Sonko should have formally relinquished his Prime Ministerial duties prior to any official reinstatement as a deputy, even on a temporary basis. The opposition is now urging President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to refer this legal dispute to the Constitutional Council for a definitive ruling.
A now strained relationship with Bassirou Diomaye Faye
Previously barred from contesting the 2024 presidential election due to a defamation conviction, Ousmane Sonko had nominated his close ally, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, to represent the Pastef party. Mr. Faye’s subsequent victory in the presidential race heralded the ascent of a powerful political duo, enjoying immense popularity, particularly among Senegal’s youth. However, as the months progressed, notable disagreements emerged between the two leaders, culminating in Mr. Sonko’s dismissal last Friday.
