Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has formally launched a new political party, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape months after his relationship with former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko broke down.
The new party, named Kiiraay, was unveiled at a gathering of supporters in Dakar on Saturday. The name, derived from the Wolof language, translates to “protection” or “shield.” According to Faye, the party will be guided by principles including republican values, ethical leadership, transparency, unity and hard work.
The development follows the collapse of the alliance that brought Faye and Sonko to power in 2024 under the banner of the Pan-Africanist party, Pastef. Shortly after assuming office, Faye appointed Sonko as prime minister, but disagreements over governance and economic policy eventually strained their relationship. The rift culminated in Sonko’s dismissal from office in May.
Hundreds of supporters attended the party’s inauguration, with many others remaining outside the venue due to limited space. Participants displayed banners and scarves in support of the president as he introduced his new political platform.
Several supporters expressed optimism that the formation of Kiiraay would allow Faye to pursue his administration’s agenda without internal political tensions. Some argued that disagreements within the previous political arrangement had slowed the implementation of promised reforms.
Faye also declared that Kiiraay aims to become the country’s leading political force, noting that several political figures, including local government officials and other prominent personalities, have already aligned with the new movement.
Although the party is yet to contest any election, reports indicate that a number of former Pastef members have resigned to join Faye’s camp. However, Pastef has downplayed the defections, insisting that it continues to attract large numbers of new supporters.
The president’s team said the party is expected to hold its first national congress after Senegal’s rainy season.
Faye’s rise to the presidency was closely linked to Sonko, who was prevented from contesting the 2024 presidential election following a defamation conviction. Faye subsequently became the coalition’s candidate and secured victory at the polls.
Despite his removal as prime minister, Sonko remains an influential figure in Senegalese politics. He now serves as Speaker of Parliament and continues to lead Pastef, which holds a commanding majority in the National Assembly.
Political tensions between the two camps have also extended to institutional reforms. Lawmakers recently approved legislation seeking to prevent a sitting president from leading a political party, but Senegal’s Constitutional Council later struck down the measure.
The launch of Kiiraay signals a new chapter in Senegal’s political landscape as President Faye seeks to consolidate support under a separate political platform while his former ally continues to command significant influence in parliament.
