Once a close ally of Ousmane Sonko, Lansana Gagny Sakho now serves as a leading figure within Kiiraay, the party backing President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. In a recent interview, he leveled sharp criticism at his former mentor, accusing Sonko of failing to prioritize the nation’s democratic framework. As chairman of the APIX board, Sakho explained his decision to distance himself from Sonko while reaffirming his dedication to Senegal’s republican institutions.

His break with Sonko stemmed from a fundamental disagreement over governance. Initially drawn to Sonko’s political vision, Sakho later rejected an opportunity to lead the water and sanitation sector after Senegal’s leadership change. “Positions never took precedence over my principles. That decision made my exit seamless. From the outset, I chose the Republic,” he stated during the discussion.

In contrast, Sakho accused Sonko of consistently undermining Senegal’s institutional stability. He pointed to public remarks Sonko made while President Faye was abroad, criticizing the government’s perceived lack of authority. These statements, Sakho argued, undermined national cohesion and embarrassed the head of state.

For Sakho, true political leadership means strengthening state institutions and fostering governance. While acknowledging challenges on all sides, he highlighted significant progress, particularly in judicial reforms. “Yes, difficulties arose, but substantial improvements have been achieved,” he noted.

Sakho also addressed recent changes at the Ministry of Justice. The former justice minister, Ousmane Diagne, had asserted that no one could manipulate him—a claim Sakho dismissed as naive. “They wanted a more compliant minister to sway judges. But magistrates are not puppets,” he declared. “Realities at the helm of power differ vastly from those viewed from the opposition benches.”