Senegal’s President Faye Forms New Party After Split with Former Ally Sonko

July 27, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has launched a new political party, deepening his break with former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and the Pastef party that brought him to power in 2024. Faye introduced the Kiiraay, Republican Patriots party at an event in Dakar on Saturday, calling it “the majority party in this country”. The name Kiiraay means “shield” in Wolof, one of Senegal’s local languages.

The move formalises a months-long political rift between Faye and Sonko, who were previously the leading figures of Senegal’s anti-establishment movement. Their alliance helped Pastef secure a decisive victory in the 2024 elections, bringing Faye to the presidency. The relationship between the two leaders deteriorated after Faye removed Sonko as prime minister in May. Sonko later became speaker of the National Assembly and continues to lead Pastef, which holds a strong majority in parliament.

Faye’s creation of a new political vehicle comes as Senegal faces economic pressure following revelations that debt figures reported by the previous administration had been understated. The split between the president and his former ally introduces uncertainty into Senegal’s political landscape as the government seeks to manage economic challenges while maintaining legislative support.

Source: FSX Business News