Senegal’s Faye plans to launch new political party after split with former ally

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye is planning to establish a new political party, signalling a major shift in the country’s political landscape following his split with former prime minister Ousmane Sonko, according to Reuters on July 6.

The move marks the clearest sign yet that the alliance which swept Faye and Sonko to power in 2024 has fractured. A coalition backing the president said Faye has instructed senior adviser Aminata Touré to lead a task force responsible for creating the new political party.

Until now, Faye had remained a member of the Pastef party, which is led by Sonko. Relations between the two men deteriorated over disagreements on the government’s direction, culminating in Sonko’s dismissal as prime minister in May. Sonko later withdrew Pastef from the new government, deepening the political divide.

The creation of a separate political party is expected to give Faye an independent political platform as he seeks to advance his reform agenda. Analysts say the decision could reshape Senegal’s political balance and influence the government’s ability to pursue economic and institutional reforms.

The political developments come as Senegal continues negotiations with the International Monetary Fund over a new lending programme following the discovery of previously undisclosed public debt. The government has been working to restore investor confidence while addressing growing fiscal challenges.

Despite the split, both Faye and Sonko remain influential figures in Senegalese politics. Observers say the emergence of a new presidential party could redefine alliances within parliament and shape the country’s political direction ahead of future elections.

The presidency has not announced when the new party will officially be launched, but preparations are reportedly underway as Faye seeks to consolidate support around his own political movement.

Political observers say the new party could reshape alliances, strengthen Faye’s leadership and influence Senegal’s political landscape ahead of future elections.

Reuters, Maghrebi.