Lansana Gagny Sakho, a prominent figure in Senegal’s political landscape and current leader of the Kiiraay party, has leveled sharp criticism at his former ally, Ousmane Sonko. Speaking in a recent interview, Sakho accused Sonko of consistently undermining the country’s republican institutions rather than embracing them.
Once a close associate of Sonko, Sakho now serves as a key member of the Kiiraay party, which backs President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. He revealed that after Senegal’s political transition, he declined a high-ranking position in the water and sanitation sector to uphold his principles. “I prioritized my convictions over political appointments,” Sakho stated. “This decision allowed me to leave with my integrity intact. From the start, I chose the Republic over personal gain.”
Sonko’s alleged disdain for republican values
Sakho’s remarks come amid growing tensions between political factions in Senegal. He accused Sonko of fostering divisions within the government through public statements, including a controversial declaration made while President Faye was abroad. According to Sakho, Sonko’s comments on national authority during the president’s official visits to the United States and China “severely embarrassed the head of state.”
For Sakho, the true measure of political commitment lies in strengthening institutions and improving governance. While acknowledging challenges on both sides, he highlighted significant progress, particularly in the justice sector. “The judiciary has made strides, and we must continue supporting it,” he emphasized.
Magistrates stand firm against political interference
Addressing recent changes at the Ministry of Justice, Sakho dismissed claims that magistrates were easily manipulated. He recounted how the former justice minister, Ousmane Diagne, had declared that no one could influence him. Sakho argued that the minister’s removal was an attempt to install a more compliant successor to sway judicial decisions. “They underestimated the independence of Senegal’s magistrates,” he asserted. “Judges are not puppets; they serve the law, not political agendas.”
The former ally-turned-critic concluded by reaffirming his belief in Senegal’s institutions, contrasting his stance with Sonko’s alleged disregard for republican values.
