Senegal’s government defends President Faye against secret pact allegations

With the PASTEF party congress just two days away, presidential advisor Aldiouma Sow has stepped forward to address recent remarks made by Ousmane Sonko. In a high-profile rebuttal, he categorically denied reports suggesting President Bassirou Diomaye Faye had signed a covert agreement while detained at Cap Manuel.

Aldiouma Sow emphasized that the Head of State has never engaged in any clandestine dealings, stressing that Bassirou Diomaye Faye remained steadfast in his political principles throughout the 2024 transition process. The advisor dismissed claims that the President participated in any scheme to undermine the Senegalese people’s electoral sovereignty, stating: « He has never been involved in any maneuver aimed at hijacking the nation’s right to freely choose its leadership. »

The presidential advisor also highlighted the President’s commitment to political dialogue, describing it as a core value rather than a tactical maneuver. According to Aldiouma Sow, Bassirou Diomaye Faye views dialogue not as a temporary instrument to navigate power dynamics but as an essential pillar guiding his governance and institutional decisions.

This firm response comes amid growing discussions within the PASTEF majority and among its supporters, particularly as the party prepares for its much-anticipated congress. Aldiouma Sow’s statements reignite debates about the relationship between Senegal’s top leadership figures and the future direction of the government.