In a high-stakes press conference, Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF movement, has lifted the veil on the circumstances surrounding his removal from office. The announcement comes after weeks of intense speculation about the rift between the political figure and the Head of State, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
This separation, I could not endorse it. With these resolute words, Sonko set the record straight, clarifying that the break was initiated by the President himself. According to his account, President Faye summoned him to the Presidential Palace and declared, « The partnership can no longer continue. »
Sonko revealed that the President cited multiple public statements made by the opposition leader as the primary reason for the decision. Rather than accepting the termination passively, Sonko took a bold stance: « I told him if he wants to dismiss me, he should do it and take responsibility for his choice. »
The political leader also disclosed a prior offer he had made to the President—proposing to step down from his ministerial position to lead the National Assembly while pledging his support for Faye’s governance. However, this proposal was never acted upon.
Sonko’s revelations shed light on a power struggle within Senegal’s political landscape, with the opposition figure refusing to bear the blame for the separation. His firm declaration underscores a refusal to accept circumstances beyond his control, framing the dismissal as a unilateral decision by the President.
