Senegal Appoints Economist As New Prime Minister After Political Rift And Sonko’s Removal

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Dakar: Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has appointed senior economist Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo as the country’s new prime minister, following the dismissal of his predecessor amid growing tensions within the ruling leadership.

The change comes days after the removal of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, whose sacking triggered the resignation of the entire cabinet and effectively dissolved the government. The decision follows months of political strain between Sonko and President Faye.

Lo, an experienced economist who previously served in senior financial roles, will now be tasked with forming a new government. He has worked with the Central Bank of West African States’ Senegal branch and also held positions within the presidential administration and Sonko’s earlier government team.

In his first public remarks after the appointment, Lo acknowledged Senegal’s worsening economic situation, describing it as a national emergency. He warned that the country’s public finances are under severe pressure, with broader consequences for the economy.

Senegal is currently facing a major debt crisis, with debt levels estimated at around 132% of GDP. Concerns over misreported financial data have already led the International Monetary Fund to freeze a $1.8 billion loan program.

The political shake-up also highlights the breakdown of a once-close alliance between Faye and Sonko, both founding members of the Pastef party. Sonko was previously barred from the 2024 presidential race following legal challenges, but remained a central political figure until his recent removal from government.