Public criticism of Ousmane Sonko is becoming increasingly rare in Senegal. The deep divisions within the country’s political landscape have created an environment where even mild dissent can provoke fierce reactions. Civil society leaders and journalists report growing intimidation, particularly online, where Sonko’s supporters—many aligned with the ruling Pastef party—launch aggressive smear campaigns against perceived opponents.

This climate of hostility has fostered widespread self-censorship, with many opting to remain silent rather than face potential digital or physical reprisals. The tension escalated further in early April 2024 when Sonko, shortly after assuming the role of Prime Minister, issued a veiled warning to the media:

“We will no longer tolerate media outlets publishing unverified claims under the guise of press freedom.”

The judiciary under fire

Sonko’s criticism extends beyond the press. In November 2025, during a public address, he accused certain magistrates of obstructing financial investigations, echoing long-standing grievances he has voiced since entering politics. These remarks were met with sharp condemnation from the legal community, deepening concerns about the independence of Senegal’s judicial system.

setbacks in women’s rights

Women’s rights advocates are also sounding the alarm over a concerning regression in gender equality under Sonko’s leadership. Activist Ossama Monique Sagna highlights the stagnation in implementing Senegal’s 2010 parity law, which mandates equal representation in political decision-making bodies.

“The current government has fewer female ministers than the final administration under former President Macky Sall,” Sagna notes. “This represents a clear decline in women’s political representation, with only four women appointed—roughly 13% of the cabinet—sparking widespread disappointment.”

She further emphasizes the lack of progress on critical feminist issues, including reforms to the Family Code, which still contains discriminatory provisions, and the delayed enforcement of the Maputo Protocol, particularly regarding reproductive rights and protections against gender-based violence. The surge in feminicides—at least 18 reported in 2025—has only intensified calls for urgent government action, yet responses remain insufficient in the eyes of activists.