Behind-the-scenes revelations paint a picture of abrupt decisions and unresolved disagreements. Ousmane Sonko, a prominent figure within the ruling party, now shares his perspective on the abrupt end to his tenure and the refusal to accept an arrangement he did not endorse.

According to Sonko, President Faye proposed that both parties publicly present their separation as a consensual decision. However, the former Prime Minister firmly rejected the idea, arguing that no prior discussions had taken place. In his account, he states that the decision was made unilaterally, without his input or approval.

An abrupt departure met with resistance

The former head of government claims he was given only 24 to 48 hours to organize the practical aspects of his departure. Yet, the presidential team reportedly moved forward immediately, bypassing any prior agreement on how to communicate the split to the public.

In his testimony, Sonko describes the separation as a form of liberation that did not impact his political standing. He emphasizes that from the start of their collaboration, he had established a clear principle: never to initiate a break. Following the announcement of his departure, he returned home that same day, followed by a period of silence between the parties involved.

Unresolved tensions in government transition

Sonko also recounts a subsequent episode involving consultations for a new government formation. He claims the presidency reached out to outgoing ministers from the ruling party, Pastef, without going through official party channels. In response, he advised these ministers to decline the invitation, insisting all discussions should follow proper party protocols—a stance that reportedly deepened existing divisions.

Days of strained communication followed before an attempt at reconciliation was initiated. Sonko proposed a meeting involving key political figures, including Birame Souleye Diop, El Malick Ndiaye, Alioune Sall, and Daouda Ngom. However, this effort ultimately failed to materialize.

The final discussions, according to Sonko, were conducted with the new Prime Minister, Al Aminou Lo. Yet, no resolution was reached on critical issues such as legal accountability, financial transparency, or public debt management—key concerns raised by the former Prime Minister’s camp.