Senegal forms new government without participation of Ousmane Sonko’s party

Tuesday 02 June 2026 - 11:45

A new government has been announced in Senegal, marking a significant political development as the ruling party PASTEF-Les Patriotes, led by Ousmane Sonko, has been excluded from the executive team despite holding a majority in the National Assembly.

The announcement was made on Monday evening by Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Amine Mohamed Lô, who presented a 30-member cabinet. This reshuffle comes amid a broader political realignment in the country, featuring a mix of technocrats and political figures aimed at strengthening governance and institutional efficiency.

Just hours before the official announcement, former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko stated that his party would not take part in the new government, signaling internal political tensions and a clear separation between the executive and the majority parliamentary force.

The Prime Minister described the new cabinet as a “mission-oriented government focused on delivering results,” emphasizing the importance of youth and women participation, as well as a stronger reliance on national expertise and diaspora talent.

Several key ministers from the previous administration have been retained, including Cheikh Diba in the Economy portfolio, Cheikh Niane in Foreign Affairs, Cheikh Tidiane Dièye in Water and Sanitation, and Moustapha Guirassy in National Education, reflecting a degree of continuity within the government structure.