Senegal’s political tensions: Sonko addresses Pastef’s future under Diomaye Faye

Pastef’s internal debate: no rush to decide on Faye’s fate

The political rift within Senegal’s ruling party continues to dominate public discourse. While some members demand the removal of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly and leading figure in the Pastef movement, has stated that such a decision will be handled by the party’s internal structures at the right time.

Speaking in a recent interview, Sonko emphasized the party’s structured nature, noting that any exclusion would follow the party’s established rules and procedures. « This will be evaluated when the time comes. Pastef is a highly organized and structured party with clear internal texts governing grievances and disciplinary actions before any exclusion is considered. The party belongs to its members, not to me—its organs will decide in due course, » he stated.

He further clarified that no exclusion process is currently underway, urging patience until the party’s mechanisms take their course. « We are not there yet, » he added.

Sonko rejects moral judgments in political disputes

When questioned about allegations of betrayal against President Faye, Sonko avoided moralizing language, choosing instead to frame the debate in political terms. « Betrayal is more a matter of morality than politics. I prefer to stick to political discussions, » he said.

He pointed to unfulfilled promises and a lack of commitment to key commitments made to the Senegalese people. « I believe several pledges we made to the people are not being honored, and there is no real will to do so. I leave moral judgments to others, » he concluded.

Growing divisions within Senegal’s leadership

These remarks come amid escalating tensions between Pastef members and President Faye. For weeks, party officials and activists have accused him of veering away from the movement’s original political vision that propelled the party to power.

Despite the mounting criticism, Sonko remains focused on internal party processes, dismissing any hasty actions regarding the president’s position.