Sonko rallies mbacké supporters with bold membership drive ahead of 2029 election

In a show of force and unity, Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party, made a high-profile appearance in Mbacké this past Saturday to launch an ambitious membership campaign. The event drew a packed crowd of party loyalists eager to rally behind the presidential hopeful’s vision for Senegal’s future.

The gathering took on added significance as Sonko addressed simmering tensions among local leaders within his own ranks. With a firm but diplomatic tone, he urged key figures—including Dr. Fall Mbaye, Deputy Ahmadou Lö, and Moustapha Diop—to set aside personal differences and prioritize solidarity. « This is not the time for infighting, » he emphasized. « What we need now is unity. That is our strongest weapon. » His call resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the message that cohesion is non-negotiable ahead of the 2029 presidential race.

Sonko also celebrated the overwhelming response to the membership drive in Mbacké, where 13,000 registration cards were sold out within hours—well before the 4:00 PM deadline. The surge in demand even overwhelmed the party’s online platform, a clear sign of the growing momentum behind the movement. « We had to place an urgent reorder with Dakar to meet the demand, » Sonko revealed, underscoring the party’s rapid expansion.

Not content with modest goals, he set a bold target: recruiting one million members in Mbacké alone by October, the final cut-off for the campaign. « This department alone can achieve that milestone, » he declared to roaring applause. But his speech wasn’t just about growth—it was a strategic reminder to stay focused and disciplined. « Senegal’s future hinges on peace, » he warned. « If we maintain calm, Pastef will dominate every election. No contest will slip through our grasp. »

Sonko also cautioned his supporters against reacting to provocations, urging them to rise above distractions. « Ignore those with no backing, no party, and no real influence, » he advised. « Their words are empty. Our strength lies in our numbers and our resolve. » With Mbacké serving as a microcosm of the national movement, the stage is set for a defining chapter in Senegal’s political landscape.