Internal tensions threaten pastef unity in ziguinchor

The façade of unity in Ziguinchor has finally crumbled. What were once quiet whispers and subtle rivalries have now transformed into an overt political confrontation within Pastef. At the heart of this internal crisis are two prominent local figures: the city’s mayor, Djibril Sonko, and his deputy, Bassirou Coly, whose open antagonism is causing concern throughout party circles.

In this historic stronghold of Pastef leader Ousmane Sonko, the situation is evolving into a political time bomb. Beneath the rhetoric of mobilization, deep-seated fractures are widening, threatening the cohesion of a party aiming to solidify its presence across southern Senegal. The current discord traces back to a political gathering in Soucoupapaye, initially intended to re-energize activists and prepare for upcoming electoral challenges. However, the assembly quickly transcended its initial purpose.

With local and national leaders present, including Toussaint Manga and Professor Alassane Diédhiou, the speeches underscored an undeniable rivalry between opposing factions. On one side, the mayor’s supporters championed his achievements and institutional legitimacy. On the other, a segment of the party, led by Bassirou Coly, advocated for an alternative vision and openly considered a mayoral candidacy in the next local elections.

A fragile unity on display

The tension has crystallized around a pivotal issue: the political re-conquest and control of Ziguinchor’s city hall. During the exchanges, Bassirou Coly hinted at his mayoral aspirations, affirming his intent to run while assuring that he would ultimately align with the party’s final decision.

Conversely, Mayor Djibril Sonko defended his municipal administration and commitment, dismissing criticisms and emphasizing his deep local roots. Without directly naming his opponents, he suggested that internal debates should not undermine the development momentum underway in the commune.

These public declarations served as a stark revelation. For several months, simmering tensions had been felt within the local party structures. They are now openly apparent, fueled by personal rivalries and competing ambitions.

For many activists present, this sequence marks a worrying turning point. In a context where Pastef seeks to strengthen its foothold in its symbolic bastion, these internal divisions risk weakening its overall political dynamic. Beyond the local context, the implications extend beyond the Ziguinchor mayoralty itself. As a city highly symbolic in Ousmane Sonko’s political journey, it serves as a barometer of the party’s strength in the south.

Some local officials are already warning about the political fallout of a defeat in this strategic commune. Losing Ziguinchor would be perceived as a negative signal ahead of the 2029 presidential election, for which the 2027 local elections represent a decisive preliminary stage. Faced with this escalation of tensions, calls for discipline and the preservation of unity are emerging. Yet, on the ground, rivalries persist, intensified by increasingly public stances.