In a significant political development in Senegal, Ousmane Sonko has been elected as the speaker of the National Assembly, just days after being dismissed as Prime Minister by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This move comes amid an escalating power struggle between the two former allies, who have been at odds over economic strategies as the country grapples with a staggering public debt of 132% of GDP. Sonko's election follows the resignation of his ally, El Malick Ndiaye, clearing the path for Sonko to lead the parliament where his party, Pastef, commands a strong majority with 130 deputies out of 165. The tensions between Sonko and Faye have intensified, particularly regarding the approach to a new aid program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). While Faye seeks international assistance, Sonko advocates for a more domestic-focused strategy. The opposition has reacted strongly to Sonko's election, with Aissata Tall Sall denouncing it as an 'institutional coup', reflecting the deepening political crisis in Senegal.