Senegal political leaders urge constructive dialogue to prevent instability

Actus.

Ousmane Sonko, who now leads Senegal’s National Assembly, has extended an olive branch to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, advocating for political dialogue to avert further crisis. Despite deep-seated disagreements, the Pastef party leader emphasized that his group will not pursue measures to destabilize the newly formed government.

Sonko questions the legitimacy of the new government

In his first public address since his dismissal from the prime ministerial role on May 22, Ousmane Sonko delivered sharp criticism of the administration appointed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Addressing reporters in Dakar, he declared, “A nation is a serious matter, and so is its government.” Sonko argued the newly formed executive lacks “any structured political legitimacy,” stressing that the President must acknowledge the current institutional power dynamics. He pointed out that the Pastef party holds a commanding majority in the National Assembly with 130 out of 165 seats.

Pastef commits to supporting the government

While voicing strong reservations, Sonko reassured the public that the Pastef party will not move to topple the government. “If Pastef wanted, this government could fall within 72 hours. Yet we will not pursue that path. Instead, we will support it,” he stated. The Assembly President underscored the critical need to maintain national stability, both to reassure investors and prevent a return to the turbulent political climate of recent years.

A call for measured political engagement

Amid escalating tensions between former allies, Sonko issued a plea for “intelligent and constructive political dialogue.” He cautioned against repeating the unrest that gripped Senegal between 2021 and 2024, warning of potential provocations targeting his supporters. He also urged Senegal’s youth to remain calm, asserting, “To achieve peace, both sides must engage in good faith.”