Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has named economist and veteran civil servant Ahmadou Al Aminou as the Country’s new Prime Minister, days after sacking Ousmane Sonko. Ahmadou steps into the role following a distinguished career at the Central Bank of West African States.
During his televised appointment announcement, Ahmadou acknowledged Senegal’s difficult financial position but sought to reassure both local businesses and foreign investors.
“We must all be aware of the state of emergency our country currently finds itself in. In particular, the state of public finances and its impact on the economy” Said Ahmadou.
Ahmadou is the former Senegal National Director for the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), a role he held from 2018 to 2023. Unlike many prominent political figures, the new head of Government is rooted in the technocratic and financial circles rather than front-line politics.
Ahmadou is renowned for his expertise in macroeconomics, financial markets, and banking regulation. He brings a distinct ideological edge to the office. He is a vocal critic of the CFA Franc, a stance that aligns perfectly with the ruling party (PASTEF) and its fierce advocacy for Senegal’s economic and monetary independence.
With Sonko now out of office, his next moves remain uncertain. He previously stated in March that he would willingly pull his PASTEF party from the government and return to opposition if Faye strayed from the party’s core agenda.
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PASTEF’s dominance in the National Assembly could hinder governance and stall the reforms required to secure IMF backing. This follows last month’s overwhelming legislative approval of electoral code changes, which potentially clears the path for Sonko’s 2029 Presidential bid.
