By: The Fatu Network News Desk
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s decision to replace Aïda Mbodj as coordinator of the “Diomaye Président” coalition has triggered growing tension within Senegal’s ruling camp.
The coalition, created before the 2024 election to unite opposition movements such as PASTEF behind Faye’s presidential bid, was jointly managed by member parties rather than by the president himself.
PASTEF, led by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, has rejected Faye’s decision, arguing that he has no authority to remove Mbodj, who was chosen by the coalition’s leadership conference. In a statement shared with local media, the party said the coalition “never had President Faye as its leader, only as its candidate,” and declared that it does not recognise any initiative led by former Prime Minister Aminata (Mimi) Touré, whom Faye appointed as Mbodj’s replacement.
The disagreement follows Sonko’s recent remarks at a large political meeting referred to as the “Tera meeting,” where he reaffirmed Mbodj’s position. Political analysts in Dakar say the dispute marks the first serious test of authority between the president and his prime minister, warning that it could affect unity within Senegal’s governing coalition.
By: The Fatu Network News Desk President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s decision to replace Aïda Mbodj as coordinator of the “Diomaye Président” coalition has triggered growing tension within Senegal’s ruling camp. The coalition, created before the 2024 election to unite opposition movements such as PASTEF behind Faye’s presidential bid, was jointly managed by member parties rather The Fatu Network
