Kiiraay: a party rooted in republican values

Several hundred supporters gathered in Dakar to witness the birth of Kiiraay, a name derived from the Wolof term for ‘protection’ or ‘shield’. Positioned as the party of ‘Republican Patriots’, the new movement champions transparency, ethics, fraternity, and hard work as its core principles. President Faye declared his ambition for Kiiraay to emerge as Senegal’s dominant political force. Already, multiple elected officials and political figures have abandoned the Pastef movement to join the presidential camp.

A political divorce finalized

The formation of Kiiraay puts an end to months of escalating tensions between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko. After initially appointing Sonko as Prime Minister upon taking office, the president dismissed him in May amid deepening political and economic disagreements. Though removed from government, Sonko retains his role as Speaker of the National Assembly and continues to lead the Pastef, which still holds a commanding majority in Parliament.

Reshaping Senegal’s political landscape

The emergence of Kiiraay ushers in a fresh chapter in Senegalese politics. The party is set to hold its inaugural congress following the rainy season, with the rivalry between Faye and Sonko poised to shape the nation’s political reconfiguration in the months ahead.