Tensions have emerged between Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, raising questions about the unity of the alliance that brought them to power in 2024.
In a message to coalition members this week, Faye expressed concern over what he described as “persistent divisions” within the ruling bloc and confirmed he had dismissed Aida Mbodj, a close ally of Sonko, as coordinator of the “Diomaye President Coalition” in early September. Former Prime Minister Aminata Touré was appointed to replace her.
Sonko, who leads the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF) party, rejected the move, publicly reaffirming his support for Mbodj during a rally in Dakar and opposing any change in coalition leadership.
Faye said divisions had persisted despite efforts to strengthen the alliance, while Sonko insisted his relationship with the president remained solid, warning against attempts to “sow discord” between them.
Sonko, once the main opposition figure, was barred from contesting the 2024 election due to legal challenges, leading his ally Faye to run in his place and win. Faye appointed Sonko as prime minister shortly after taking office, a move seen as recognition of their joint political struggle against former President Macky Sall.
The growing rift between the two allies, both popular among Senegal’s youth, could test the stability of the government less than a year after taking power.
