Senegal’s President Macky Sall dismissed Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko on Wednesday, ending months of strained relations between the two leaders. The decision, announced in a terse statement from the presidency, cited a need for “a new direction” in the government’s agenda. Sonko, a former tax inspector and vocal critic of Sall, had been appointed in 2021 in an apparent effort to placate opposition factions. However, their partnership quickly soured over economic reforms and Sonko’s independent stance on foreign investment.
The dismissal comes just hours before a planned UK trade mission to Dakar, which has now been postponed indefinitely. British officials expressed disappointment, noting that the mission was intended to strengthen post-Brexit ties and secure investment in Senegal’s energy sector. The UK’s Department for International Trade confirmed the delay, adding that they are “monitoring the situation closely.”
Analysts view the move as Sall reasserting control ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Sonko’s popularity among younger voters had made him a potential rival, and his removal may destabilise the fragile political balance in Senegal, a rare stable democracy in West Africa. “This is a calculated risk by Sall,” said Professor Amadou Ba of Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar. “He is betting that the international community will overlook the political turmoil for the sake of continuity.”
Senegal’s main opposition party condemned the sacking, calling it a “betrayal of democratic principles.” Protests broke out in central Dakar, though security forces quickly dispersed the crowds. The Senegalese franc remained stable in early trading, but market analysts warn that prolonged uncertainty could deter foreign investment.
The UK trade mission, which included executives from BP and Rolls-Royce, was part of a broader effort to secure liquefied natural gas deals. Senegal holds significant gas reserves, and the UK has positioned itself as a key partner. The delay represents a setback for both countries’ energy strategies.
President Sall has not commented on when a new prime minister will be appointed. The constitutional council is expected to advise on the appointment within a week. For now, Senegal’s political future remains uncertain, with the region watching closely.
