Former ally of Ousmane Sonko accuses him of abandoning the Senegalese Republic

In a bold statement, Lansana Gagny Sakho reveals why he declined a prestigious government position after Senegal’s political transition.

Lansana Gagny Sakho, a once-close associate of Ousmane Sonko and now a leading figure in President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Kiiraay party, has delivered a scathing critique of his former mentor. Speaking on a national broadcast, the Chairman of the APIX board underscored the fundamental differences that led to his break with Sonko, reaffirming his commitment to Senegal’s republican institutions.

His decision to distance himself from Sonko stems from a deep conviction in the importance of institutional stability. He revealed that he had been offered a key position in the water and sanitation sector—a role he deliberately turned down to uphold his principles. “I refused the post because my values mattered more than any government position,” he declared. “This principled stand allowed me to disengage from Sonko’s orbit smoothly. From the very beginning, I chose the Republic over personal ambition.”

Sonko’s alleged disregard for state institutions

Lansana Gagny Sakho’s remarks extend beyond his personal choices, targeting Ousmane Sonko’s perceived disregard for Senegal’s republican framework. He accused Sonko of fueling institutional divisions through public statements, particularly during a period when President Faye was engaged in official diplomatic visits abroad. Sonko’s remarks, criticizing the lack of authority in the country, were described as deeply damaging to the administration’s credibility.

The former ally emphasized that true political leadership lies in strengthening state institutions rather than undermining them. While acknowledging challenges on all sides, he highlighted significant progress in sectors such as justice reform, where tangible improvements have been achieved despite initial hurdles.

Justice reforms under scrutiny

Sakho also addressed recent changes in the Ministry of Justice, where former Justice Minister Ousmane Diagne had publicly asserted his independence. According to Sakho, the minister’s replacement was intended to install a more compliant figure to influence judicial decisions. “The move backfired,” he asserted. “The magistrates refused to be manipulated. Those who think power works through puppeteering fail to grasp the realities of governance.”

His comments reflect a broader critique of political strategies that prioritize short-term influence over long-term institutional integrity. As Sakho’s stance gains traction, it underscores the evolving dynamics within Senegal’s political landscape, where loyalty to the Republic is increasingly pitted against factional ambitions.