Ousmane Sonko addressed a massive crowd in Linguère this past Saturday, rallying supporters of the Pastef movement. His speech was laced with sharp criticism aimed at the sitting President, whom Sonko accused of betraying the democratic mandate granted by voters. The President had previously removed Sonko from his position as Prime Minister in May.

« The people didn’t fight for this »

With the crowd roaring in approval, Sonko painted a vivid picture of disillusionment, condemning the widening gap between the ideals that propelled the ruling party to power and the actions of its leadership today. In a moment that resonated deeply with the audience, he declared: « The Senegalese people did not vote for this. They did not struggle for this. Lives were not lost for this. People did not go to prison for this. Senegalese fought to change the system. Today, that same system is entrenched in the presidency, still operating as before. »

This statement underscores the growing rift between Sonko and the President, whom he accuses of perpetuating the very political structures the opposition had vowed to dismantle. Sonko, visibly determined to challenge the administration in the upcoming elections, expressed unwavering confidence in a future victory, regardless of the political maneuvers his opponents might deploy.

« Let him take all the mayors he wants. Let him form alliances with any party he chooses. I speak only to the people, because in a democracy, there is only one truth: the will of the people, » he declared, addressing both his supporters and all Senegalese citizens directly.