Former Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has been elected as the new President of Senegal’s National Assembly, only days after being dismissed from his position as head of government by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
Sonko was elected on this Tuesday, May 26, 2026, after receiving 132 votes out of 133 lawmakers who participated in the parliamentary vote. Reports from multiple international media outlets described the result as a strong show of support from the ruling PASTEF party and its allies in parliament.
The vote came just days after President Faye officially dismissed Sonko as Prime Minister and dissolved the government following months of growing tensions between the two longtime political allies. Their disagreements were reportedly linked to the country’s economic direction, governance strategy, and negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Following Sonko’s dismissal on May 22, President Faye appointed economist Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo as Senegal’s new Prime Minister. Lo previously served as a senior official at the Central Bank of West African States and is expected to lead efforts aimed at stabilizing Senegal’s economy and rebuilding investor confidence.
Before Sonko’s election as head of parliament, former National Assembly President El Malick Ndiaye resigned from the position, opening the path for Sonko’s return to the legislature. Sonko had earlier suspended his parliamentary mandate after becoming Prime Minister in 2024.
The overwhelming parliamentary support shown to Sonko demonstrates that he remains one of the most influential political figures in Senegal despite his removal from government. Political analysts believe his new role as President of the National Assembly could allow him to maintain significant influence over national politics and legislative reforms.
The political situation has also attracted international attention because Senegal is currently facing serious economic challenges. The country has been negotiating with the IMF over a suspended $1.8 billion financial support program after concerns emerged about hidden debt liabilities and rising public debt.
Analysts say differences between Sonko and President Faye became increasingly visible over how Senegal should manage its economy. Sonko was known for criticizing IMF-backed reforms and supporting stronger economic sovereignty, while President Faye appeared to favor a more moderate approach aimed at reassuring international investors and financial institutions.
Despite the political tensions, both leaders remain connected through the ruling PASTEF party, which continues to dominate Senegal’s parliament. However, observers warn that the growing rivalry between the two powerful figures could shape Senegalese politics for years to come, especially ahead of future elections and economic reforms.
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