Serigne Habib Sy joins Pastef ahead of Tivaouane Mawlid with Ousmane Sonko

In a significant political move ahead of the Tivaouane Mawlid celebrations, Serigne Habib Sy, a prominent religious figure, publicly declared his membership in the Pastef party during a meeting with its president, Ousmane Sonko, in the town of Diaksao.

Political alignment with Pastef strengthens ahead of religious festivities

Serigne Habib Sy, son of the late Mame Abdou Aziz Sy Dabakh, confirmed his intention to openly join the Pastef party during a private audience with Ousmane Sonko in Diaksao. This declaration came as part of Sonko’s traditional outreach to religious leaders ahead of the Mawlid celebrations in Tivaouane.

The religious leader’s announcement follows years of civic engagement, including his previous involvement with the ‘Y en a marre’ movement in February 2021. His formal membership in Pastef marks a new chapter in his public political alignment.

A public commitment to political participation

During the meeting, Serigne Habib Sy expressed his enthusiasm for joining the party, stating, « I am a member of Pastef. I will soon purchase my membership card. However, I am unsure how to complete the process online. » Ousmane Sonko responded by assuring him of full support, promising, « I will personally deliver your membership card. »

This exchange underscores the growing intersection between religious and political spheres in Senegal, particularly as influential figures like Serigne Habib Sy openly embrace party politics.

From civic activism to party affiliation

Serigne Habib Sy’s decision to join Pastef reflects a broader trend of public figures transitioning from grassroots movements to formal political structures. His prior affiliation with ‘Y en a marre’ demonstrated his commitment to social change, and his new alignment with Pastef signals a strategic shift toward institutionalized political participation.