In a show of robust grassroots engagement, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly and founder of the Pastef party, launched a high-energy tour through key localities including Bargny, Sébikotane, Khombole, and Bambey. The visit, marking his first stop of the day, drew massive crowds eager to interact with the political figure as part of a sweeping membership recruitment drive.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd in Bargny, Sonko paid tribute to fallen activists who sacrificed their lives during years of intense political struggle that ultimately paved the way for Pastef’s electoral triumph. He highlighted the unwavering dedication of local supporters in securing the party’s historic victories, which culminated in the presidential win of Bassirou Diomaye Faye in April 2024 and sweeping legislative gains shortly after.
The party, established by Sonko in 2014, framed its recent electoral success as the culmination of a decade-long mobilization effort. This period was marred by relentless repression and significant human losses between 2021 and 2024, underscoring the resilience of its supporters in the face of adversity.
Since assuming the presidency of the National Assembly on May 22 following his transition from the Prime Minister’s office, Sonko has navigated a shifting political landscape. His relationship with the President of the Republic has progressively deteriorated, a divide that became evident as the latter launched a separate political party. The growing rift has triggered a wave of resignations among Pastef officials, signaling deepening divisions within the former coalition, Diomaye Président.
The Bargny leg of the tour reinforced Sonko’s commitment to honoring the memory of activists and victims from the turbulent years of 2021–2024, including the announcement of a 100 million FCFA fund to support their families and communities.
The nationwide membership campaign, initiated in early July, has already made significant strides. In Mbacké, the official launch saw an unprecedented surge, with 13,000 membership cards sold within hours—prompting an emergency restock in Dakar. Sonko has set an ambitious target of one million new members by October, reflecting the party’s determination to consolidate its grassroots base ahead of upcoming challenges.
