President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Sénégal officially inaugurated his new political party, Kiiraay, in Dakar on Saturday. This significant move solidifies a definitive separation from his former political mentor and ex-Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, with whom he shared a path to power in 2024.
A new political force emerges
In Dakar, hundreds of enthusiastic supporters gathered for the official launch of Kiiraay, a name derived from Wolof, signifying « protection » or « shield ». Positioned as the party of « Republican Patriots », this nascent movement asserts its foundation on the core tenets of the Republic, including ethics, transparency, fraternity, and diligent work. The head of state articulated his vision for this new entity, declaring its ambition to become the nation’s « majority party ». Already, a number of elected officials and political figures have departed from Pastef to align themselves with the presidential faction.
The finality of a political split
This announcement brings to a close several months of escalating tensions between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko. Following his ascension to power, President Faye initially appointed Sonko as Prime Minister. However, Sonko was ultimately dismissed from the role last May, a decision reportedly stemming from growing political and economic disagreements. Despite his departure from the government, Ousmane Sonko retains his position as President of the National Assembly and maintains leadership of Pastef, a party that still commands a substantial majority within Parliament.
Reshaping Sénégal’s political landscape
The establishment of Kiiraay inaugurates a fresh chapter in Sénégal’s political narrative. The new party is slated to convene its inaugural congress after the conclusion of the rainy season. The evolving rivalry between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko is poised to be a central dynamic in the ongoing reconfiguration of the Senegalese political arena.
