The facade of unity in Ziguinchor has crumbled. What were once hushed whispers and subtle rivalries have now erupted into a visible political confrontation within the Pastef party. At the heart of this internal crisis are two prominent local figures: the city’s mayor, Djibril Sonko, and his deputy, Bassirou Coly. Their ongoing clash is causing considerable concern within party circles.

In this historic stronghold of Pastef leader Ousmane Sonko, the situation is evolving into a political time bomb. Beneath the rhetoric of mobilization, deep-seated divisions are widening, threatening the cohesion of a party determined to solidify its influence in southern Senegal. The conflict gained public traction following a political gathering in Soucoupapaye, initially intended to re-energize activists and strategize for upcoming elections. However, the event quickly transcended its stated purpose.

With local and national leaders, including Toussaint Manga and Professor Alassane Diédhiou, in attendance, public statements clearly highlighted an undeniable rivalry between opposing factions. On one side, the mayor’s supporters championed his accomplishments and institutional legitimacy. On the other, a segment of the party, led by Bassirou Coly, advocated for an alternative leadership and openly considered a mayoral bid in the next local elections.

A fragile unity increasingly exposed

The tension has crystallized around a pivotal issue: the political reassertion and control of Ziguinchor’s city hall. During the discussions, Bassirou Coly unveiled his aspirations, affirming his intention to seek the mayoral office while also pledging to align with the party’s ultimate decision.

Conversely, Mayor Djibril Sonko robustly defended his municipal record and dedication, refuting criticisms and emphasizing his strong local roots. Without directly naming his detractors, he intimated that internal debates should not undermine the development momentum within the commune.

These public declarations served as a stark revelation. For several months, subtle tensions had been brewing within the party’s local branches. Now, fueled by personal rivalries and conflicting ambitions, these divisions have burst into the open.

Many activists present view this sequence as a troubling turning point. At a time when Pastef aims to solidify its presence in its symbolic stronghold, these internal divisions risk weakening the party’s political momentum. Beyond this local scenario, the stakes extend beyond the Ziguinchor municipality itself. As a profoundly symbolic city in Ousmane Sonko’s political journey, it serves as a crucial indicator of the party’s strength in the south.

Some local officials are already sounding the alarm about the political ramifications of a defeat in this strategic commune. Losing Ziguinchor would be perceived as a negative signal ahead of the 2029 presidential election, for which the 2027 local elections represent a decisive preliminary stage. Faced with this surge in tensions, calls for discipline and the preservation of unity are emerging. Yet, on the ground, rivalries persist, exacerbated by increasingly public declarations.