Keypoints:
- President Faye appoints new coalition head, angering PASTEF
- Party loyal to Sonko refuses to recognise the change
- Rift emerges as Senegal faces IMF scrutiny over hidden debts
A POLITICAL rift has opened in Senegal between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his ruling Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF) party, after both sides named rival leaders for their governing coalition. The dispute risks deepening internal divisions as the government negotiates new terms with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Faye’s appointment sparks backlash
President Faye this week appointed Aminata Toure, his close ally and former prime minister, to lead the broad coalition that propelled him to power in March 2024. But the move was swiftly rejected by PASTEF — the dominant force in the alliance — which announced it still recognised Aissatou Mbodj, an ally of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, as coalition leader.
The party’s statement described Faye’s unilateral appointment as ‘unprocedural and politically insensitive’, signalling the first open rupture within the ruling bloc.
President and premier downplay rift
Both Faye and Sonko publicly denied any power struggle, insisting their partnership remains intact. Yet analysts note that tensions have simmered since the early months of Faye’s presidency, as PASTEF’s grassroots base presses for faster economic reforms and broader political inclusion.
Insiders told Reuters that the leadership disagreement reflects a deeper contest between the presidency’s institutional authority and Sonko’s enduring popularity among Senegal’s youth and reform activists.
IMF talks hang in the balance
The clash comes at a sensitive time for Senegal’s economy. The IMF froze a $1.8bn support programme earlier this year after undisclosed public liabilities — now exceeding $11bn — were discovered. Faye’s administration has vowed to restore fiscal transparency and rebuild donor confidence, but internal distractions could complicate those efforts.
Political implications for reform
Analysts warn the dispute could slow decision-making on key reforms, including subsidy rationalisation and anti-corruption measures. While Sonko commands immense street-level support, Faye’s credibility with international lenders depends on projecting unity and control.
A fractured ruling bloc could embolden opposition figures and delay implementation of promised social programmes.
Regional and investor concerns
Senegal’s political stability has long set it apart in West Africa. However, the current friction underscores the challenge of governing through a dual-power structure — with one leader in the presidency and another commanding the party machinery.
Diplomats say the IMF and regional investors are closely watching how the standoff is resolved, as it could determine whether the country’s reform agenda stays on track or stalls under internal rivalry.
For now, both camps insist reconciliation is possible. But with Faye’s coalition unity under strain and fiscal deadlines looming, Senegal’s new leadership faces its toughest political test yet.
