Senegal's popular opposition figure Ousmane Sonko is named prime minister in new government

Ousmane Sonko, Senegal's opposition figure, appointed as prime minister, with ally sworn in as president. Sonko, 49, popular among youth for promising transparency and sovereignty. New president little known until Sonko named him. Anti-French sentiment rising, accusing of exploiting ties. Support for Sonko despite prior conviction preventing presidential run. (Source: AP)

Senegal's popular opposition figure Ousmane Sonko was named as the prime minister in the new government on Tuesday, hours after his key ally was sworn in as president.

Sonko, 49, has inspired Senegalese youth frustrated with widespread unemployment and corruption among the ruling elite. A former tax inspector, like the president, he has promised to deliver greater transparency and sovereignty for Senegal.

As in other former French colonies in West Africa, sentiment is turning against France, often seen use its ties to enrich itself at the expense of Africans.

The new president, Bassirou Diomaye, Faye was little known until Sonko named him to run in his place, and was catapulted to victory in the election held last month.

Sonko was barred from running due to a prior conviction. Supporters maintain that his legal troubles were aimed at keeping him out of the presidential race.

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