Senegalese politician accuses ousmane sonko of abandoning pastef values

A sharp divide is widening within Senegal’s Pastef party, as revealed by a prominent figure’s recent remarks. Aldiouma Sow, a key political ally of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, publicly accused Ousmane Sonko of abandoning the party’s founding principles since its rise to power.

During a live television appearance on TFM, Aldiouma Sow criticized Sonko’s leadership, alleging that his behavior reflects a troubling shift from the collective vision that once defined the party. According to Sow, Sonko’s post-election conduct reveals a form of « messianism » incompatible with the movement’s original ethos.

From opposition to power: a radical transformation

Sow emphasized that when Pastef was in opposition, Sonko presented a different image—one that aligned with the party’s democratic and participatory values. However, he argued that power has exposed Sonko’s true nature, leading to a leadership style that Sow described as increasingly self-centered and detached from the party’s grassroots.

« The party was built on collective ideals, not the cult of personality, » Sow stated. He warned that this evolution risks isolating the party from its supporters and fueling criticisms from the opposition, which has long accused Pastef of abandoning its initial commitments.

Tensions escalate between Sonko and President Faye

The allegations come at a time of growing political friction between Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Recently, the President distanced himself from Pastef, opting instead to establish his own political movement. This move has further strained relations within the party, with Sow positioning himself firmly in support of Faye while openly challenging Sonko’s leadership.

Sow’s remarks underscore the deepening rift within Pastef, raising questions about the party’s future cohesion and its ability to maintain the trust of its supporters in a rapidly changing political landscape.