Sonko brands new government ‘politically unsustainable’

In his first public address since his dismissal on May 22, Sonko sharply criticized President Faye’s newly appointed cabinet. Speaking at a press conference in Dakar, he declared, “A nation is a serious matter, a government even more so.” The Pastef leader argued the executive lacks “any structured political legitimacy,” stressing that the president must acknowledge the current parliamentary balance of power. With Pastef holding 130 of the National Assembly’s 165 seats, Sonko emphasized the need for institutional harmony.

Pastef pledges support despite disagreements

While voicing strong reservations, Sonko made it clear his party would not push for a vote of no-confidence. “If Pastef wanted, this government could fall within 72 hours,” he stated. “But we won’t. Instead, we’ll support it.” His priority, he said, is safeguarding Senegal’s stability to reassure investors and prevent renewed political turmoil.

Stability over confrontation

Facing rising tensions between former allies, Sonko issued a plea for “smart, constructive dialogue.” “We must avoid repeating the chaos of recent years,” he warned, referencing the violent unrest that gripped Senegal between 2021 and 2024. While condemning provocations against his supporters, he urged calm among youth, declaring, “Peace requires two willing parties.”