Senegal’s Diomaye Faye introduces new party amid political shift

Diomaye Faye establishes « Kiiraay » as a bold political departure

On a blazing Saturday in Dakar, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye marked a defining moment in his political journey by unveiling his new party, « Kiiraay »—a name rooted in the Wolof language meaning « protection » or « shield »—signaling an emphatic break from his former mentor, Ousmane Sonko. The launch, held in a packed conference hall of a prominent hotel, drew hundreds of supporters both inside and outside the venue, where solidarity chants of « Long live Diomaye » echoed under the sweltering midday sun.

The creation of « Kiiraay »—with its rallying cry « Patriotes républicains »—reflects Faye’s vision of governance rooted in republican values, transparency, ethics, fraternity, and diligence. Among the attendees was Mamo Khady Sall, a 43-year-old resident of Yeumbeul, a Dakar suburb, who traveled with a group of 15 women to express her unwavering support. She described Faye as a « man of peace » and voiced her strong opposition to Sonko, whose name she refused to mention.

From allies to adversaries: the unraveling of a political alliance

Once united under the Pastef party—a panafricanist movement that propelled both men to power in 2024—Faye and Sonko shared a common goal: transforming Senegal’s economic landscape, advancing social justice, and eradicating corruption. However, their collaboration frayed over time, particularly on critical issues like the nation’s soaring public debt and governance strategies. Faye’s presidential victory in 2024 was largely attributed to Sonko’s influence, though it was Sonko himself who was barred from running due to a prior conviction, leaving Faye to inherit the leadership mantle.

The rift became undeniable in May 2026, when Faye dismissed Sonko from his post as Prime Minister. In a swift counter-move, Sonko’s allies elevated him to President of the National Assembly, where he remains the undisputed leader of Pastef—a party that commands a commanding 130 of the 165 seats in Senegal’s unicameral legislature. Tensions escalated further in June when the National Assembly passed a contentious bill aimed at curtailing presidential powers, including a clause barring the head of state from leading a political party or coalition. Yet, this legislative maneuver was swiftly struck down by the Constitutional Council within two weeks, underscoring the ongoing power struggle.

A new political dawn for Senegal

With the establishment of « Kiiraay », President Faye made a bold assertion: « Kiiraay is the majority party in this nation ». The announcement was met with enthusiasm by mayors, sector leaders, and civil society figures in attendance. Reports indicate that several former Pastef officials and activists have already defected to join the new movement. A major party congress is slated to follow the summer rainy season, as Faye prepares to consolidate his political base in Senegal’s ever-evolving landscape.

As Faye steps into this new chapter, the move underscores more than a personal departure from his past—it signals a potential realignment of Senegal’s political trajectory, one that prioritizes stability, accountability, and national unity in the face of complex challenges.