Senegal Backlash: Diomaye Faye Accused of Betraying Ousmane Sonko

Dakar–, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye dismissed Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and dissolved the government, ending a celebrated alliance that propelled the PASTEF movement to power in 2024 under the unifying slogan "Diomaye mooy Sonko" (Diomaye is Sonko). What began as a symbol of hope for change has devolved into accusations of betrayal, with thousands of online supporters, youth activists, and former allies rallying emotionally behind the charismatic Sonko, portraying Faye as a traitor who turned against the very force that made his presidency possible.

Timeline of the Diomaye–Sonko Alliance and Fallout

• 2024 Election: Sonko, barred from running, anoints Faye as candidate. Their joint campaign captures anti-establishment sentiment, defeating incumbents amid youth mobilization.

• Post-Election: Faye appoints Sonko as PM. Early harmony focuses on sovereignty, anti-corruption, and Pan-African rhetoric.

• Mid-2025 Onward: Tensions emerge over governance style, party control, economic policy (IMF negotiations), and perceived moderation by Faye. Sonko criticizes "lack of authority" and pushes harder on reforms.

• Early 2026: Public spats intensify, including disputes over coalitions and personal influence. Faye warns of party "collapse" due to over-personalization around Sonko.

• May 22, 2026: Hours after Sonko's strong anti-Western remarks on a new anti-LGBTQ+ law, Faye issues the decree sacking him. Supporters rally at Sonko's home.

Why Supporters Feel “Betrayed”

Many PASTEF sympathizers view Sonko as the ideological architect and true revolutionary force. Faye was seen as a placeholder enabled by Sonko's sacrifice and popularity. The dismissal is framed as ingratitude: Sonko endured imprisonment and legal battles; Faye benefited from the momentum. Online discourse highlights disagreements over IMF austerity (seen as compromising sovereignty), foreign policy softening toward France, and Faye's consolidation of power ahead of 2029 ambitions. Supporters accuse Faye of prioritizing presidential control over the collective "project."

Speculation (distinguished from verified facts) includes rumors of personal rivalries and external pressures. Verified tensions involve policy friction and party leadership.