By Staff Reporter
The composition of the new government led by Ahmadou Alamine Mohamed Lo has revealed several notable developments following the announcement by Pastef leader Ousmane Sonko that his party would not participate in the cabinet.
In a statement published on social media, Sonko said he held discussions with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye earlier in the day. He noted that while areas of agreement were identified, disagreements remained, particularly regarding the role of the majority in the executive system.
He added that subsequent proposals submitted by the party were not accepted, and confirmed that Pastef would not be represented in the new government.
Despite this position, several individuals linked to Pastef and allied political structures were appointed to ministerial positions.
Marie-Angélique Mame Selbé Diouf was named Minister of Family and Solidarity. She is a member of parliament elected on the Pastef national list and serves as vice-president of the party’s parliamentary group.
Abdou Khadre Ndiaye, also a member of parliament elected in Louga and affiliated with Pastef structures, was appointed Minister of Transport.
Yankoba Diémé, described as a close ally of Sonko and coordinator of Pastef in Bignona, was appointed Minister of Armed Forces, replacing his previous post in infrastructure-related portfolios.
Alioune Dione and Moussa Bala Fofana were also retained in government, while Bakary Sarr was appointed Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson.
The presence of these figures in the new cabinet comes despite Sonko’s announcement that Pastef would not take part in the government.
Following his appointment, Alioune Dione said he would continue his work in support of inclusive microfinance and social economy development.
Several members of the governing coalition under the Alliance Patriotique pour le Travail et l’Éthique (APTE) also retained their positions, including Cheikh Tidiane Dièye and Moustapha Guirassy.
APTE was formed alongside the Diomaye Président coalition, which supports President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
Political observers note that the composition of the government reflects efforts by the presidency to maintain political balance within the governing coalition, despite differences over cabinet participation between the head of state and Pastef leadership.