A New Political Dynamic in Senegal: Sonko–Diomaye Partnership Defies Historical Comparisons

By Tombong Saidy, UNITE MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE

 As Senegal enters a new era of political leadership, we continue to examine the unique relationship between Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Their partnership, forged through years of shared struggle and ideological alignment, stands in sharp contrast to earlier political pairings in the subregion—most notably the strained relationship between Gambia’s President Adama Barrow and A.N.M. Ousainu Darboe, as well as Senegal’s historic fallout between President Léopold Sédar Senghor and his then–Prime Minister Mamadou Dia.

Despite repeated comparisons, all well informed political observers widely agree that the current arrangement in Dakar is fundamentally different:

in this case, Ousmane Sonko remains the central figure of power, influence, and political legitimacy.

Theirs is a partnership rooted in joint struggle.

Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye rose to prominence not as rivals, but as allies who shared common experiences of political persecution. Both men endured arrests, state pressure, and legal battles as leaders of the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF), a movement that captured the imagination of Senegal’s frustrated youths.

Their political bond was shaped by a unified ideological vision; Coordinated activism against state repression and a mutual trust built over years within the same political machinery.

This foundation differs sharply from other political partnerships in West Africa, where alliances often emerge from convenience rather than conviction.

In The Gambia, relations between President Adama Barrow and his former political mentor A.N.M. Ousainu Darboe deteriorated rapidly after Barrow assumed office in 2017. Despite the United Democratic Party’s decisive role in securing Barrow’s victory, the two leaders soon drifted apart amid accusations of betrayal, political insecurity, and attempts by the president to weaken his former allies.

The Sonko–Diomaye relationship shows no such cracks.

President Faye has consistently acknowledged Sonko’s contribution, while Sonko himself has played an influential role in shaping the administration’s strategic and ideological direction. Even though there often emerge differences between them made public,  the perceived cracks are superficial.

Some political observers point to Senegal’s own political history, particularly the dramatic 1962 clash between President Léopold Sédar Senghor and Prime Minister Mamadou Dia. Their dispute over executive authority led to Dia’s arrest and imprisonment, setting a precedent for executive dominance and political suppression.

Today’s situation is markedly different. Rather than viewing the prime minister as a threat, President Faye has positioned Sonko as a central partner in governance—an arrangement that reflects both personal loyalty and political necessity.

Though Bassirou Diomaye Faye holds the constitutional authority of the presidency, Ousmane Sonko remains the driving force behind Senegal’s political transformation. This highlights several factors behind his continued dominance:

1. Architect of the Movement:

Sonko built the grassroots political base long before Faye emerged as a national figure.

2. Symbol of Resistance:

His arrests and political bans elevated him to the status of a national icon, giving him unmatched moral authority.

3. Ideological Leader:

Sonko continues to set the policy tone and strategic direction of the government.

4. Public Influence:

Many Senegalese—especially young voters—still view Sonko as the face of the new political era.

5. A Cooperative President:

Diomaye has shown no desire to sideline Sonko, unlike past leaders who sought to eclipse their political allies.

In essence, Ousmane Sonko made Diomaye, and this reality shapes the balance of power within Senegal’s leadership. Besides,  he controls Parliament by having an overwhelming majority.

The Sonko–Diomaye partnership introduces a new political model in West Africa—one where two strong national figures operate without rivalry, insecurity, or political sabotage. Their relationship may provide a blueprint for collaborative governance in a region historically plagued by political betrayals and fractured alliances.

As Senegal moves forward under this joint leadership, the enduring question remains whether this model can withstand the pressures of governance. For now, however, the country appears to be witnessing a rare political partnership—one in which loyalty and shared vision prevail over personal ambition.

The opposition on the hand wants to see a divorce between the two of them, it is but a wishful thinking.