On June 1, 2026, the PASTEF-Les Patriotes party, led by Ousmane Sonko, officially announced its refusal to participate in the government formed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The party cited fundamental disagreements over the structure of the executive branch, emphasizing that none of its members would hold positions in the new administration.

Despite this stance, the cabinet led by Prime Minister Ahmadou Al-Aminou Lo includes several prominent figures whose political backgrounds are closely tied to the PASTEF movement or its leader. Their inclusion has sparked discussions about the government’s evolving dynamics.

Key ministers with ties to PASTEF

The new government features several high-profile appointments linked to the political vision championed by Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye during the 2024 presidential election. Among them are:

• Yankhoba Diémé, appointed Minister of Armed Forces
• Cheikh Tidiane Dièye, assigned to the Ministry of Hydraulics and Sanitation
• Ibrahim Sy, leading the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene
• Marie Angélique Mame Selbe Diouf, overseeing the Ministry of Family and Social Solidarity
• Déthié Fall, designated Minister of Infrastructure

These individuals are widely recognized as either part of the presidential alliance or as figures who supported the political momentum that led to Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s election victory.

Additionally, the government includes technocrats and independent-minded leaders such as Cheikh Diba, Cheikh Niang, and Boubacar Camara, whose professional backgrounds do not align directly with PASTEF’s partisan agenda.