Accusations of institutional maneuvering resurface in Senegal's political debate regarding Ousmane Sonko's ambitions
via SeneNews1 min read
Senegal's political landscape is once again marked by strong accusations concerning the ambitions of former Prime Minister and current Pastef president, Ousmane Sonko. Despite his recent focus on the National Assembly, Sonko is reportedly still aiming for a return to the Prime Minister's office, according to statements attributed to journalist Madiambal Diagne in an interview published this Saturday in L'Observateur. According to this source, Ousmane Sonko "intends to return to the Prime Minister's office by demanding that the Prime Minister be appointed by the parliamentary majority." This strategy, as reported, would allow him to resume a central executive role in government action. In this interpretation, the former head of government would seek to "self-proclaim Prime Minister in order to impose his choices and desires on the President of the Republic." The journalist further describes this as a "scheme" in the making, referring to it as "an institutional coup he is implementing." Madiambal Diagne also highlights the circumstances following Sonko's departure from the Prime Minister's office. He states that "the haste with which he, after his dismissal as Prime Minister, went to the National Assembly should raise questions." He adds that "this concern was more than suspicious," believing it to be "a strategy to overthrow President Bassirou Diomaye Faye."
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Nicolas Jackson, the Senegalese forward, has addressed and denied rumors circulating about his alcohol consumption following Senegal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. In an Instagram post, Jackson firmly refuted the accusations, stating, "It's false. I don't drink alcohol, I never have. I love this jersey too much and I respect my teammates too much to behave as anything other than a professional." He emphasized his commitment and professionalism, despite the criticism directed at him after the team's early exit from the tournament. Jackson acknowledged the disappointment of supporters but stressed that frustration should not lead to the spread of false information. He concluded his message by affirming his dedication to his career, stating he will continue to work, recover, and return stronger.
Senegalese goalkeeper Mory Diaw has issued an apology to supporters following the elimination of the Lions of Teranga in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. In an emotional message, Diaw acknowledged his share of responsibility for the team's exit, stating, "I am sorry. Sorry for not being able to take you further." He reflected on his childhood dream of representing Senegal on the global stage and recognized the harsh reality of a goalkeeper's role, where a single action can alter a match's outcome. Despite the disappointment, Diaw emphasized that this elimination should not overshadow the team's efforts and sacrifices. He expressed that the pain will linger but affirmed his unwavering love for the national jersey, promising to return with greater determination. Diaw concluded by thanking Senegalese fans for their support through both victories and defeats, looking forward to future challenges with the Lions.
Five people have died in Togo due to floods caused by heavy rains on June 28 and 29, according to a government statement released on Saturday evening. The Gulf of Guinea experienced particularly intense rainfall at the end of June, marking the beginning of the rainy season, which led to severe flooding in Togo, as well as in Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Nigeria. The provisional toll in Togo includes five deaths, significant material damage, and major traffic disruptions. The floods also "strongly disrupted traffic," with many homes, particularly in the capital Lomé, inundated. Some households were forced to evacuate and seek refuge with neighbors or relatives. The government stated that rescue operations, assistance to affected populations and communities, and securing at-risk areas are underway, along with support measures for affected families and households, in a spirit of national solidarity. Several political parties and civil society organizations have called on residents in unaffected areas to show solidarity with those impacted. The Dynamique pour la majorité du peuple DMP, a coalition of opposition political parties and civil society organizations, criticized the recurring floods in a statement on July 2, emphasizing the urgent need to rethink urbanization and sanitation policies. Beyond Togo, these heavy rains have also caused fatalities in other countries, with 59 deaths reported in Côte d'Ivoire and twelve in Ghana.