Senegal’s president launches new party amid political shift
Breaking news. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal officially unveiled his new political party, Kiiraay, in Dakar over the weekend. The launch signifies a definitive break with his former mentor and ex-Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, despite their shared role in securing power in 2024.
Kiiraay: A new movement for the president
Hundreds gathered in Dakar to witness the inauguration of Kiiraay, a name meaning ‘protection’ or ‘shield’ in Wolof. Positioned as the party of ‘Republican Patriots,’ Kiiraay champions the values of the Republic, ethics, transparency, fraternity, and hard work. President Faye declared that the new formation aims to become the country’s dominant political force. Already, several elected officials and political figures have defected from the Pastef party to join the president’s ranks.
Final split with Ousmane Sonko
The announcement concludes months of escalating tensions between President Faye and Sonko. After appointing Sonko as Prime Minister upon taking office, Faye dismissed him in May amid political and economic disagreements. Though removed from government, Sonko remains Speaker of the National Assembly and leads the Pastef party, which still holds a substantial parliamentary majority.
The president’s decision to establish Kiiraay reflects broader shifts in Senegal’s political landscape, underscoring the evolving dynamics between key figures.
