Senegal launches new party kiiraay to back president faye’s reforms

The President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has inaugurated a new political party named « KIIRAAY – Les Patriotes Républicains » in Dakar on Saturday, July 25, marking a pivotal shift in the nation’s political landscape following his departure from the PASTEF, formerly led by his former mentor Ousmane Sonko.

The party’s unveiling took place during a foundational general assembly held at a local hotel, where its guiding motto, « La Patrie d’abord » (« The Nation First »), was introduced. This slogan underscores KIIRAAY’s commitment to prioritizing national interests, reinforcing republican institutions, and upholding the rule of law.

In Wolof, « Kiiraay » translates to « that which protects, » a name chosen to symbolize the party’s mission to support President Faye’s governance agenda and unite forces aligned with his transformative vision for Senegal. The assembly concluded with delegates unanimously electing Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the party’s president, a strategic move following his earlier resignation from PASTEF’s leadership at the start of his presidential term.

The establishment of KIIRAAY is the result of a merger of 437 political parties, movements, and associations, all rallying behind a shared commitment to advance the reforms initiated by the Head of State and bolster the country’s developmental ambitions. Aminata Touré, Former General Supervisor of the Diomaye Président coalition, presented this resolution during the event.

The emergence of KIIRAAY has drawn significant attention from international partners, investors, and development stakeholders. With Senegal actively pursuing its Vision Sénégal 2050 strategy, institutional stability and clear governance remain critical to fostering market confidence, attracting foreign investment, and strengthening international collaborations.

The launch of this new political entity signals the beginning of a new phase in Senegal’s political life, one that may reshape the dynamics within both the presidential majority and the opposition ahead of upcoming elections. It also sets the stage for future economic and institutional reforms, shaping the framework in which they will unfold.