A major political crisis is unfolding in Senegal as a public power struggle between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko threatens to fracture the country’s ruling coalition.
The standoff began on Tuesday after President Faye removed Aïssatou Mbodj, a close ally of Sonko, from her position as head of the “Diomaye Président” coalition the same alliance that brought Faye to power in 2024.
Faye replaced her with his former campaign coordinator, Aminata Touré, in a move that directly contradicted Sonko’s earlier statement that there would be “no change at the head of the coalition.”
Sonko’s party rejects the president’s decision
In a quick and firm response, Sonko’s Pastef party declared the president’s decision “illegal,” insisting that Faye has “no authority to dismiss” Mbodj.
The party also said it shares “neither the same values nor the same principles” with Touré signaling a deepening political and ideological divide within the government.
A test of leadership and legitimacy
Political analysts say the public confrontation exposes a battle for control between the two men who once campaigned as close allies.
Prime Minister Sonko still wields significant influence through his Pastef party and a strong grassroots movement, while President Faye is trying to assert his authority just months after taking office.
Observers warn the dispute could paralyze decision-making and push Senegal into a period of political uncertainty, as questions mount over who truly holds power in the West African nation.
