Pastef’s internal tensions: Ousmane Sonko urged to resolve Abass Fall dispute

With Senegal’s local elections just one year away, the simmering conflict between Abass Fall and Khouraïchi Thiam within the Pastef party has become a critical test for Ousmane Sonko’s leadership. The rivalry risks fracturing the party’s unity and undermining its electoral ambitions in Dakar, forcing Sonko to act swiftly to prevent a damaging split that could weaken his political standing.

The tension between the two figures is not merely a personal disagreement—it reflects deeper divisions within Pastef over strategy, influence, and the party’s future direction. As these internal clashes intensify, the possibility of a permanent rift grows, making Sonko’s intervention essential to maintain cohesion ahead of the upcoming polls.

For a party that has positioned itself as a unifying force in Senegal’s political landscape, the persistence of such infighting could erode public confidence and distract from its core objectives. Sonko’s ability to mediate effectively will determine whether Pastef can present a united front or succumb to the fractures threatening its stability.