A few days before the legislative elections, opposition figures are joining Pastef, raising questions about the political cohesion and integrity of the party.
Influential figures from the former camp of President Macky Sall are now joining the ranks of the ruling party, Pastef, led by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. Among the latest defectors, Adji Mbergane Kanouté, former vice-president of the Benno Bokk Yakaar parliamentary group and nominated on the opposition list, recently announced her support for Pastef. This change of heart, and others of this type, arouse heated controversy, both within the opposition and within Pastef itself.
An opposition in search of leadership?
For some observers, these defections reflect a deep crisis within the Senegalese opposition, marked by a lack of leadership and cohesion. Unable to retain its executives, it seems vulnerable in the face of Pastef’s advances. Some members, such as former Justice Minister Malik Fall, publicly renounced their membership in the old regime to support Sonko’s policies. This situation raises the question of whether the opposition, already weakened by the departure of Macky Sall, will be able to maintain its place on the political scene.
Political “transhumance”, a taboo within Pastef
For Pastef, welcoming these new “allies” is not without causing a certain embarrassment. Sonko and his supporters have long discussed the practice of political “transhumance”, described as opportunistic migration from one camp to another. In 2024, Sonko denounced this phenomenon, affirming that his party remained closed to anyone associated with controversial management of public affairs. However, today, the discourse is softening, evoking unconditional collaboration with sincere support. A position that does not convince all activists, some perceiving these gatherings as a concession to the founding principles of the party.
Several personalities among these new allies are suspected of seeking protection against possible legal proceedings. Some, prohibited from leaving the territory, see their rapprochement with Pastef as an issue to avoid being confronted with the courts. The quest for a parliamentary majority thus seems to encourage Pastef to turn a blind eye to these recognized people, a choice which could tarnish the image of integrity that the party strives to project.
Pastef faced with the pressure of accountability
The dilemma for Ousmane Sonko and President Diomaye is significant: should they remain faithful to their promise of justice and transparency, or prioritize strengthening their legislative power? By welcoming controversial figures, Pastef takes the risk of weakening its credibility with an electorate who voted for change and integrity. The question of accountability therefore remains important, because many wonder about the type of legal files affecting these former dignitaries, following the legislative elections.
On the side of the Alliance for the Republic (APR), now in opposition, the time has come for denunciation. In a press release, the APR accuses Pastef of having orchestrated a destabilization plan by using justice to encourage officials to join their ranks. These accusations, although unfounded, fuel the public debate on the ethics and morality of political practices in Senegal.
