Ousmane Sonko elected President of Senegal's National Assembly

Ousmane Sonko, the former Prime Minister of Senegal, has been elected President of the National Assembly with 132 votes out of 133 expressed. This election occurred during a session boycotted by the opposition, making him the second most prominent figure in the state.

Following his dismissal by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Sonko has adopted an uncharacteristic silence. Analysts, including former Sonacos board chairman Youssou Diallo, suggest this shift from his usual outspoken political style may be a strategic period of evaluation. This silence follows tensions within the Pastef party and potential shifts in leadership structures, such as the reorganization of the ‘Diomaye Président’ movement.

Observers note that while Sonko previously used public denunciation as a political tool, his current discretion may be a way to measure the repercussions of his relationship with the President. There are concerns within Pastef that a formal rupture between Faye and Sonko could lead key political actors to move into the opposition.