Sonko’s triumphant tour in dakarois suburbs reveals enduring grassroots support

Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party and current President of Senegal’s National Assembly, is currently on a grassroots tour across the suburbs of Dakar, including stops in Guédiawaye, Pikine, Keur Massar, and Rufisque. Despite stepping down from his government role and ongoing political tensions with the President, his popularity remains unwavering among the people.

During his visit, the National Assembly President paid a solemn tribute to a late party member, Djiby Mbaye, a former political prisoner who fell ill during his detention under the previous regime. The crowds greeted his convoy with overwhelming enthusiasm, carrying him in triumph and chanting slogans in his support. Some voices even called for his future candidacy in the 2029 presidential election, while others expressed criticism toward President Diomaye Faye, highlighting the growing divide within the government.

The tour continues to expand, reaching other strongholds in the Dakar suburbs and now including Thiès. While deeper analysis of this mobilization will follow, keen observers are closely monitoring every move of the opposition leader, whose influence shows no signs of fading.