Senegal PM Ousmane Sonko Confirms He Will Continue in His Role Despite Speculation
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Loading... - James Ameyaw
- 23 Dec 2024
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Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced that he will remain in his position rather than assume the role of president of the national assembly. This decision follows the recent snap parliamentary elections, in which Sonko's party, the ruling Pastef party, achieved a significant victory, securing 130 out of 165 seats in the national assembly on November 17.
This victory marks one of the largest majorities ever attained by a single party in Senegal, leading to speculation about whether Sonko should step down as prime minister to lead the national assembly, thereby promoting institutional balance. Some observers argued that having Sonko preside over parliament could help mitigate potential conflicts within the executive branch, especially given that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye owes his position to Sonko's support.
Sonko has been a key figure in Senegalese politics, playing a crucial role in President Faye's election victory in March. He has served as prime minister since the government took office in April. During his address at the national assembly, Sonko stated, "I'm staying on at the prime minister's office. I had come to submit my letter of resignation as an MP. We have started work at the prime minister's office. The president needs me by his side. We are continuing this work."
With Sonko's decision to remain in his role, Malick Ndiaye, a close ally and the current minister of transport, was elected as the new president of the national assembly on Monday.
The sweeping legislative victory for Pastef provides Senegal's new leaders with the mandate to pursue their ambitious reform agenda, particularly as the country faces challenges such as high inflation and widespread unemployment.
