Former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko discusses his departure from government and President Faye's request

He claims that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye asked him to publicly state that their separation was by "mutual agreement," a request Sonko says he rejected because the decision was made unilaterally without discussion. Sonko stated he proposed a 24 to 48-hour delay to organize the practicalities of the decision, but the presidency proceeded immediately without prior consultation on communication. He views his departure as a form of "liberation" that has not affected him politically.

Sonko also mentioned that he had a rule from the beginning of their collaboration not to be the cause of a rupture. Following his dismissal, he returned home, and there were several days of silence between the parties. He further stated that he learned the presidency had begun consultations with outgoing ministers from Pastef for a new government.

Sonko advised these ministers not to respond, believing discussions should go through official party channels, which he says increased tensions. This deadlock reportedly lasted several days before an attempt to re-establish contact was made. Sonko claims he proposed a meeting with several political leaders, including Birame Souleye Diop, El Malick Ndiaye, Alioune Sall, and Daouda Ngom, but this initiative did not materialize.

Final discussions were then held with Prime Minister Al Aminou Lo, but no decisions were made regarding the c