Codes joins pastef amid Senegal political tensions

The CODES movement has officially merged with Pastef, citing the current political climate as a driving force behind the decision. In an internal communiqué, the group argues that the Social Transformation Project championed by Ousmane Sonko is under severe threat. The document claims that power has been seized by individuals who were not key contributors to the 25 March 2024 patriotic revolution, with the ultimate target being Ousmane Sonko, the revolution’s guiding figure.

The CODES’ stance aligns closely with Ousmane Sonko’s recent doctrinal statements, including his concept of the ‘popular bloc’ introduced during the Diamniadio congress. Sonko warned that while people can seize power, they often fail to transform the state, a perspective now echoed by the CODES in its call for urgent action.

The organisation is urging nationwide mobilization, urging youth and citizens to rally behind Ousmane Sonko to safeguard the Project. It also extends an appeal to democratic forces, encouraging them to rejoin Pastef-Les Patriotes in large numbers to secure the Project’s success, as stated in the communiqué.

This push for unity follows Ousmane Sonko’s recent nationwide tours, including a stop in Mbacké, where he urged local leaders to set aside internal divisions ahead of the 2029 presidential elections. The merger marks a sharp contrast to recent departures within Pastef, where several officials left to join the President’s political camp, highlighting the deepening political divisions gripping Senegal.