• Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has dismissed PM Ousmane Sonko.
• The dismissal comes amid rising political tensions and economic pressure due to high public debt.
• Sonko, known for his strong youth following, had openly criticized Faye in recent months.
• The move has led to protests in Dakar, demonstrating Sonko's popularity among supporters.

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has dismissed Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and dissolved the government, a move that heightens existing political tensions in the country. The announcement was made via state television, as Faye asserted he had "ended the duties of Ousmane Sonko" along with those of the entire cabinet, according to Reuters and Africanews.

Despite winning a significant election victory together, relations deteriorated as Sonko publicly criticized Faye and led to tensions manifesting as protests. He galvanizes support through his pan-African and anti-colonial rhetoric, which resonates particularly with Senegal's youth, as noted by BBC and Africanews. Sonko referred to his political situation on social media, indicating he would "sleep with a light heart," despite his dismissal.

The political landscape is complicated by Senegal's dire economic conditions, with public debt at about 132% of GDP, creating a backdrop for Faye's drastic decision. This situation reflects challenges within their ruling coalition, which was built on Sonko’s popularity, yet the president retains the ultimate authority, as highlighted by Africanews and BBC.