Once a close associate of Ousmane Sonko, Lansana Gagny Sakho has now aligned himself with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Kiiraay party. In a recent television appearance, the chairman of APIX delivered a scathing critique of Sonko, accusing him of repeatedly failing to prioritize the nation’s republican values. Sakho’s remarks shed light on the growing rift between Senegal’s political figures as the young administration navigates its early challenges.

Reflecting on his political journey, Sakho admitted he initially joined Sonko’s movement due to admiration for its leadership. However, after the government transition, he rejected an offer to head the water and sanitation sector—a role that would have positioned him at the heart of national development. “I refused to let positions overshadow my principles,” Sakho explained. “That decision allowed me to walk away without hesitation. From the start, I made my choice: I stand with the Republic.”

In stark contrast, Sakho accused Sonko of consistently undermining Senegal’s institutions. He pointed to a particularly damaging public statement made by Sonko during President Faye’s official visits to the United States and China, where Sonko publicly questioned the government’s authority. According to Sakho, such remarks not only embarrassed the administration but also deepened political divisions at the highest level.

For Sakho, the essence of true political commitment lies in strengthening state institutions rather than exploiting divisions. While acknowledging that both sides have faced difficulties, he emphasized the progress made in critical areas such as judicial reform. “The judiciary has seen significant improvements,” he noted, “despite the challenges we’ve encountered.”

Sakho also addressed recent changes in the Justice Ministry, recalling how former Justice Minister Ousmane Diagne had declared before parliament that no one could manipulate him. Sakho alleged that the minister’s removal was an attempt to install a more pliable figure who could influence judicial decisions. “That strategy failed,” he declared. “Magistrates are not puppets. The realities of power are far more complex than opposition rhetoric suggests.”