Senegalese official Lansana Gagny Sakho criticizes Ousmane Sonko’s stance on republic

In a candid television appearance, Lansana Gagny Sakho, Chairman of the Board of Directors at APIX and a former ally of Ousmane Sonko, clarified the reasons behind his public break from the Pastef leader. Speaking on a national morning show, he emphasized his unwavering commitment to Senegal’s republican institutions, a choice he claims guided his political decisions long before the country’s political shift.

Reflecting on his alignment with Pastef’s initial vision, Sakho admitted that admiration for its founding figures initially drew him to the party. However, he made clear that loyalty to democratic principles always took precedence over personal or political gains. This stance, he noted, led him to decline a high-profile ministerial role in the water and sanitation sector shortly after the transition. « I refused to compromise my values for any position. That decision allowed me to step away with my integrity intact, » he stated, underscoring his dedication to the Republic from day one.

Sonko’s leadership questioned over perceived republican divide

Contrasting his own path with that of Ousmane Sonko, Sakho delivered a pointed critique of the opposition leader’s approach to governance. He accused Sonko of deepening political fissures within the state apparatus through controversial public statements, particularly one made during President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s official visits to the United States and China. In that statement, Sonko allegedly questioned the government’s authority, a remark Sakho described as both unpatriotic and damaging to national cohesion. « Such rhetoric does not serve Senegal; it only serves to undermine stability, » he asserted.

Institutional progress praised despite acknowledged challenges

While acknowledging that both sides of the political spectrum have faced hurdles, Sakho praised significant strides—especially in the justice sector—under President Faye’s administration. He contrasted this progress with what he described as Sonko’s failure to grasp the realities of governance from opposition benches. « Power is not a game of puppeteering; it demands responsibility and foresight, » he remarked, in reference to Sonko’s criticisms of judicial independence.

Sakho also addressed the recent reshuffle at the Ministry of Justice, where former Justice Minister Ousmane Diagne had famously declared before parliament that no one could manipulate him. According to Sakho, Sonko’s camp sought to replace Diagne with a more compliant figure, a move he dismissed as naive. « Magistrates are not marionettes; they are the guardians of the law, » he said, defending the judiciary’s autonomy against what he viewed as politically motivated interference.

His remarks come amid a growing wave of high-profile departures from Pastef, with several party officials crossing the aisle to join the presidential camp ahead of the anticipated launch of the Kiiraay party. Sakho, who has repeatedly voiced support for President Faye’s policies, reiterated his belief in institutional continuity and national stability as pillars of Senegal’s future.