Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has officially dismissed Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and dissolved the nation’s government, marking a dramatic collapse in the partnership between the two political allies. The decision, announced via a televised decree, effectively removes the entire cabinet and signals a major shift in the country’s leadership structure following months of escalating internal friction.

The rift between the two leaders became public following a parliamentary session where Sonko openly challenged the President’s strategy for managing the nation’s severe economic crisis. Senegal is currently grappling with significant financial instability, with public debt levels reaching 132% of its GDP. This economic strain has already led to the suspension of a $1.8 billion lending program by international financial institutions, further complicating the administration’s ability to govern.

Faye and Sonko rose to power together after being released from prison just days before the 2024 election, campaigning on a platform of unity under the slogan “Diomaye is Sonko, Sonko is Diomaye.” However, the relationship soured as the President reportedly grew concerned over Sonko’s influence within the ruling Pastef party, while Sonko publicly questioned the President’s leadership capabilities. Following the announcement of the dismissal, supporters of the former Prime Minister took to the streets of Dakar to protest the move.

As of now, the administration has not named a successor for the Prime Minister role. The sudden dissolution of the government leaves the country in a state of political uncertainty as it attempts to navigate its mounting debt obligations and internal party divisions.