Bassirou Diomaye Faye, recently sworn in as the president of Senegal, has appointed the head of the largest opposition party as his prime minister.
Ousmane Sonko, who serves as President Faye’s political mentor, shared a period of imprisonment with him just before the March elections.
Both were among numerous political detainees granted amnesty by outgoing President Macky Sall.
“A few hours after taking office as the president of Senegal, his excellency Faye has appointed Sonko prime minister,” the President posted on X
Initially designated as the opposition’s presidential nominee, Mr. Sonko faced disqualification upon his arrest, igniting widespread protests.
Throughout the electoral race, both candidates advocated for sweeping political and economic changes, emphasizing national unity following the unrest triggered by their incarceration.
During his inauguration address on Tuesday, President Faye pledged to transform Senegal into a beacon of hope with a fortified democratic framework.
