Despite public reassurances, growing tensions between Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko are becoming increasingly visible, stirring uncertainty at the heart of the country’s leadership.
President Faye, who has downplayed any discord, still refers to Sonko as a “friend.” However, the Prime Minister’s recent criticisms suggest a deepening rift. During a speech on July 10, Sonko openly decried what he called a “lack of authority” in Senegal, even hinting that he lacks the necessary power to govern effectively.
These remarks have sparked widespread speculation. Sonko also reproached President Faye for not defending him against what he described as personal attacks. The tension is amplified by Sonko’s supporters, many of whom remind Faye that his rise to power was largely thanks to Sonko’s political backing and influence. They have not held back, taking to social media and press platforms to express their discontent with the president’s “attitude.”
From Faye’s side, allies have been working to calm the situation. Yet the fallout is evident. The ruling party, Pastef, which once prided itself on unity and reform, now finds itself under pressure. What once appeared to be a united leadership front is now showing cracks — with some insiders suggesting a political “divorce” may be imminent.
The implications of this internal friction are significant. The perceived discord risks undermining the legitimacy of the government, weakening public trust, and casting doubts on Senegal’s political stability at a critical time.
While both leaders continue to serve in their roles, the question remains: can they mend their relationship for the sake of governance — or is a deeper rupture inevitable?
