Sonko Fired With Immediate Effect Before End of Term
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Ousmane Sonko has been dismissed as Senegal’s Prime Minister by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye following months of growing disagreements between the two leaders.
In a statement read on state television on Friday night, May 22, 2026, the Secretary-General of the Presidency, Oumar Samba Ba, announced that Sonko had been removed from office with immediate effect.
The presidency also confirmed that the entire Senegalese government had been dissolved, meaning all ministers were dismissed from their positions.
However, he stated that the outgoing cabinet will remain temporarily to handle government operations until a new Prime Minister and ministers are appointed.
Rift Between Faye and Sonko
The dismissal comes after months of tension between President Faye and Sonko, who were once close political allies.
Sonko played a major role in Faye’s rise to power during the 2024 presidential election after he was barred from contesting because of a defamation conviction.
After winning the election, Faye appointed Sonko as Prime Minister.
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But cracks in their relationship became more visible in recent months, especially over economic policies and government spending.
Hours before his dismissal, Sonko publicly criticised President Faye during a session in the National Assembly over special political funds.
According to local media reports, Sonko said the President had “made a mistake” and needed to reconsider his position.
Former Prime Minister Reacts After Dismissal
Shortly after the announcement, Sonko reacted through social media, saying he would now “sleep with a light heart” at his home in the Keur Gorgui neighbourhood.
The move has already sparked reactions across Senegal, with reports showing rising political tensions in parts of the country.
Some students at Cheikh Anta Diop University were seen chanting President Faye’s name following the announcement.
Economic Pressure Facing Senegal
The political shake-up comes at a difficult time when Senegal is facing economic hardships.
The country has been facing pressure over rising debt and ongoing talks with the International Monetary Fund.
Senegal is also trying to revive discussions with the IMF after concerns emerged over the country’s debt figures.
Before Sonko’s dismissal, Finance Minister Cheikh Diba had told parliament that Senegal hoped to resume talks with the IMF in June.
Sonko had recently opposed some economic proposals, including fuel price increases and debt restructuring plans.
The former Prime Minister had also pushed for changes in oil, gas, and mining contracts, arguing that Senegal should benefit more from its natural resources.
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Ousmane Sonko, Prime Minister of Senegal, with Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal, during a past event in Senegal. PHOTO/Presidency of Senegal