Senegal politics: Aldiouma Sow dismisses secret pact claims between Faye and Sonko
In a sweeping statement posted on his Facebook page, Aldiouma Sow, a senior member of Pastef les Patriotes’ National Political Bureau (BPN), has come out in strong defense of party officials who accepted President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s invitation to engage in dialogue—amidst the deepening rift between the Head of State and his former Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, which is sending shockwaves through Senegal’s political landscape.
The declaration underscores a core belief held by President Faye: dialogue is not a tactical maneuver, but a deeply rooted principle that has shaped his approach since launching the national dialogue initiative in May 2025. Sow emphasizes that the President’s commitment is unwavering, stating, « For him, dialogue is not a situational variable. » He highlights how the Head of State has dedicated extensive time to dialogue even when no constitutional, ethical, or moral obligation demanded it.
In addressing a persistent rumor circulating in political circles, Sow categorically denies claims of a secret agreement made at the Cap Manuel prison prior to President Faye’s release. « Bassirou Diomaye Faye never entered into a secret pact at Cap Manuel prison, » he asserts firmly. This comes in direct response to Ousmane Sonko’s recent assertion that such an agreement exists between him and the current President. Instead, Sow suggests a different narrative: that it was within the prison walls where certain candidates allegedly swore oaths, hand placed on the Quran, to transfer power to Sonko upon assuming office.
Sow’s rebuttal extends to what he describes as a « destructive messianic cult » threatening the very survival of Pastef since 2022. He points to controversial decisions during that year’s legislative nominations, where long-standing party leaders were sidelined in favor of last-minute allies. « The same pattern will repeat in upcoming legislative and local elections, spelling political doom for Pastef’s grassroots, » he warns, urging coordinators to « reject this messianic dictate. »
Addressing ministers who have remained in their government positions despite internal party pressure, Sow delivers a resolute message: « Stand proud in your decision. You may be removed from WhatsApp and Telegram groups, excluded from national party bodies, or suspended—but no one can strip you of your place in the patriotic project. »
In closing, Sow extends an olive branch to the undecided, urging them to break away from the Sonko-led faction before it’s too late: « To all brothers and sisters, party cadres, and deputies who may still be tempted by this destructive messianism—there’s still time to change course without losing anything. »
