Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has announced he will remain in his current role as head of government, brushing aside calls to preside over the national assembly following his party’s historic victory in the November 17 snap parliamentary elections.
Sonko’s ruling Pastef party, led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, secured 130 out of 165 seats in the national assembly, marking one of the largest single-party majorities in Senegal’s history. The resounding win has fueled debates about Sonko’s position, with some suggesting he should step down as prime minister to head the legislature, ensuring institutional balance and mitigating potential conflicts within the executive.
Sonko Reaffirms Commitment to Prime Ministerial Role
Speaking at the national assembly on Monday, Sonko dispelled speculation about a possible transition to parliamentary leadership.
“I’m staying on at the prime minister’s office. I had come to submit my letter of resignation as an MP,” he said, ahead of the swearing-in of new lawmakers.
He underscored the importance of his role in supporting President Faye: “We have started work at the prime minister’s office. The president needs me by his side. We are continuing this work.”
Sonko has been instrumental in Pastef’s rise and in President Faye’s electoral victory in March. He has served as prime minister since the government took office in April.
Legislative Majority to Propel Reform Agenda
Pastef’s commanding majority positions the government to implement its ambitious reform agenda, aimed at addressing critical issues such as high inflation and widespread unemployment.
With the ruling party holding such a decisive grip on legislative power, analysts predict a smoother path for policy execution, a rarity in Senegal’s often fractious political landscape.
The decision for Sonko to remain in the executive branch reflects the government’s focus on maintaining cohesion as it tackles the challenges facing the West African nation.
