From our correspondent in Dakar

Dismissal doesn’t equate to political disgrace, declared Ousmane Sonko on Tuesday, emphasizing his ‘popular legitimacy.’ Within just four days, the former Prime Minister rebounded to reclaim the legislative helm with renewed vigor.

In a speech framed as an olive branch to the executive branch, Sonko pledged no ‘gridlock,’ no ‘personal vendettas,’ and no ‘institutional chaos’—only ‘strict oversight of government actions’ and the use of ‘every available counter-power lever’ in case of disagreement.

An ‘unprecedented’ cohabitation

Sonko outlines a cohabitation strategy he describes as constructive and ‘unprecedented,’ according to political analyst Ellimane Haby Kane, director of Legs Africa think tank. Kane notes that while Sonko ‘plays by the rules,’ his true intent is ‘to control the executive branch.’

Kane points to the ongoing power struggle as evidence: Sonko’s Pastef party alleges the president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, failed to consult them on key appointments, including the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers—an issue that will continue to fuel tensions.

By Tuesday evening, a Pastef statement hinted at exploratory talks with party members regarding government formation, though it set conditions for participation.