Ousmane Sonko’s Republican Choice: Lansana Gagny Sakho Speaks Out

Lansana Gagny Sakho, the president of the Conseil d’administration de l’APIX, has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding Ousmane Sonko’s choice of political path. In an interview with RFM Matin, Sakho defended his decision to support institutions based on the individuals who embody them.

Sakho explained that he had initially joined the Pastef party due to its core values, but after the alternation, he declined a nomination to lead the water and sanitation sector in order to stay true to his convictions. ‘I didn’t want to put my principles on the line. It allowed me to leave easily,’ he said.

However, Sakho sharply criticized Sonko for not choosing the Republican path. He accused Sonko of fueling the fracture within the state through certain public statements, citing a statement made during President Faye’s official visit to the US and China, where Sonko had denounced a lack of authority in the country.

Sakho believes that the key to politics lies in preserving true institutions and improving the functioning of the state. He acknowledged that challenges exist on both sides but emphasized the importance of progress, particularly in the justice sector.

He also discussed changes at the Ministry of Justice, pointing out that the previous head, Ousmane Diagne, had claimed that no one could manipulate him before his replacement. Sakho argued that this move aimed to install a more pliable minister to influence judges, but he believed that magistrates are not marionettes.

This statement by Sakho comes as the party Kiiraay launches its campaign with President Diomaye Faye’s support, amidst a wave of resignations within Pastef. The recent statements from Lansana Gagny Sakho serve as a reminder of the ongoing tensions within the political landscape in Burkina Faso.