Senegal’s ruling party, PASTEF – Les Patriotes, has issued a statement following the dismissal of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

In a statement released after the announcement, the party said it had taken note of the president’s decision to terminate Sonko’s duties as prime minister.

PASTEF paid tribute to what it described as the “remarkable work” carried out by Sonko and his government, praising their leadership, patriotism and commitment to serving the Senegalese people.

The ruling party said Sonko’s leadership and vision had marked “a foundational milestone” in what it called Senegal’s “citizen revolution”.

PASTEF announced preparations for its congress scheduled for June 6, 2026, stressing that the party remains committed to preserving its political project and the ideals endorsed by voters during the March and November 2024 elections.

The statement further reaffirmed the party’s dedication to defending national sovereignty, patriotism and African unity, while pledging continued service to the interests of the Senegalese people despite the political changes.

The dismissal of Sonko marks a major political development in Senegal, where he has remained one of the country’s most influential political figures and a central force behind PASTEF’s rise to power.