Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye dismissed Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and dissolved the government on May 22, 2026, according to a decree read on national television. The move follows months of reported tensions between the two leaders, who were once political allies.
The decree, announced by a presidential aide, stated that Faye had ended the duties of the prime minister and the government. No immediate reason was given, but analysts point to growing disagreements over economic policy and political strategy since Faye took office in March 2024.
Sonko, a key figure in Faye's election campaign, had served as prime minister since April 2024. His dismissal marks a significant shift in Senegal's political landscape, as the two had jointly campaigned on an anti-establishment platform.
Political observers note that Faye now faces the task of forming a new government, which could signal a change in direction for the West African nation. The opposition has called for clarity on the reasons behind the dismissal.
