The question of a potential motion of censure against the new government looms in Sénégal’s political landscape. While a general policy statement from the Prime Minister is customary for seeking a vote of confidence, it is not legally mandated. However, members of parliament retain the prerogative to initiate a motion of censure independently, requiring support from a tenth of their colleagues. Amidst these political dynamics, Ousmane Sonko offered a calming perspective on Sunday regarding the overall situation in the country.

“There is no institutional crisis in Sénégal. This new configuration we are witnessing in Sénégal has occurred elsewhere, often without major fanfare. The Senegalese people have chosen to entrust the executive branch to one individual, even if we all know who influenced that choice, and the legislative branch to another person or group. There is certainly a misunderstanding between certain individuals or political factions. However, neither the state of Sénégal, nor its institutions, nor its security, nor its stability, are currently at risk,” Sonko declared.

Despite the acknowledged political divergence, Sonko‘s address aimed to reassure. Political analyst Moussa Diaw does not foresee a direct confrontation, stating, “Politically, it’s not advantageous for them. Especially for Sonko, as he would be perceived as someone trying to obstruct. I believe they will avoid this power struggle and instead foster collaboration while respecting each other’s prerogatives.”

Nevertheless, Diaw identifies potential areas of contention, such as relations with the International Monetary Fund (FMI) concerning national debt and the progress of judicial inquiries into deaths from past political demonstrations. Internally, the fate of dissident ministers and the position of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who remains the honorary president of the Pastef party, are expected to be decided by the political bureau. Furthermore, Ousmane Sonko has issued a clear warning: there will be no postponement of the local elections scheduled for January 2027, which represent the next significant test for Pastef. No decree setting the election date has yet been issued.