Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has announced his decision to continue in his role, quelling speculation that he might take up the presidency of the national assembly. The announcement follows the Pastef party’s landslide victory in the November 17 snap parliamentary elections, where it secured 130 of 165 seats, one of the largest majorities in the country’s history.
The decision has sparked debate over institutional balance, with some arguing that Sonko should preside over parliament to avoid potential conflicts within the executive branch, given President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s reliance on Sonko for his electoral victory in March.
Sonko, a key figure in the administration since taking office in April, reaffirmed his commitment to his current role. “The president needs me by his side. We are continuing this work,” he stated at the national assembly, adding that he had resigned as an MP to focus on his duties as prime minister.
With Sonko staying as head of government, Malick Ndiaye, a close ally and transport minister, was elected president of the national assembly on Monday. The Pastef party’s dominance provides Senegal’s leadership with a strong mandate to implement reforms addressing challenges such as inflation and unemployment.