Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has been dismissed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in a sudden move that reshapes the country’s political direction.

This decisive action was announced during a national broadcast, signaling the end of Sonko’s tenure as head of government. The decision also triggers the dissolution of the entire cabinet, including ministers and deputy ministers.

The announcement has sparked immediate reactions, with Sonko taking to social media to express his perspective. His post read, “Alhamdoulillah. Tonight, I will sleep peacefully at the Keur Gorgui residence.”

President Faye’s administration has confirmed that a new Prime Minister will be appointed, followed by the formation of a fresh cabinet. The move comes after a period of growing tensions between the two leaders.

The political shift follows Sonko’s pivotal role in Faye’s 2024 election victory. Unable to run himself due to legal obstacles, Sonko strategically backed Faye, who secured over 54% of the vote in a landslide first-round win.