Malick Gackou urges Pastef members to stay united against Kiiraay split

In a firm stance against the recent exodus of Pastef members toward the new party Kiiraay, former minister Malick Gackou has rallied his supporters to uphold discipline and collective commitment. The leader of the sovereignist movement, led by Ousmane Sonko, issued a clear call for unity, emphasizing the need to preserve the party’s founding ideals amid political shifts.

Addressing his fellow Patriotes, Malick Gackou stressed the importance of staying mobilized and aligned with the principles that define Pastef’s political vision. He argued that the movement’s credibility hinges on the exemplary conduct of its representatives, urging militants to demonstrate unwavering dedication to the national development agenda led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

« The strength of our movement lies in our unity and our ability to act with integrity,» he declared. « Exemplarity is our first weapon in defending our sovereign ambitions and ensuring the long-term leadership of our president, Ousmane Sonko. »

Defending unity amid growing divisions

Several high-ranking officials and activists from Pastef have already defected to Kiiraay, a new political formation positioning itself as the president’s party. These departures have raised concerns about the potential fragmentation of the sovereignist movement. In response, Malick Gackou has doubled down on calls for cohesion, framing discipline as a non-negotiable pillar for sustaining Pastef’s influence.

He highlighted the risks of internal divisions, warning that a lack of unity could undermine the party’s ability to advance its agenda. « Our project’s success depends on our collective resolve,» he noted. « Every militant must embody the values we stand for—responsibility, transparency, and commitment to the people. »

Preserving Pastef’s political legacy

With political deadlines looming, Pastef faces a critical juncture. The party’s leadership is under pressure to consolidate its ranks and reaffirm its role as a driving force in Senegal’s political landscape. Malick Gackou’s intervention underscores the urgency of reinforcing internal structures while countering the allure of splinter groups like Kiiraay.

The former minister’s appeal comes at a time when ideological and strategic differences threaten to weaken the sovereignist movement. By invoking the need for exemplarity and discipline, he seeks to rally members around a shared vision—one that prioritizes national sovereignty and the collective good over factional interests.