A former pastef official reflects on ousmane sonko’s leadership

My involvement with PASTEF was never driven by a pursuit of position, privilege, or accolades. My commitment stemmed from a profound conviction: to contribute to the emergence of a more equitable, transparent, and rule-of-law-abiding Senegal.

I vividly recall the arduous years of struggle, the clandestine gatherings, the threats, and the sacrifices. I witnessed countless individuals forgo their comfort, and at times their safety, all to champion an ideal that transcended us all.


When our vision finally ascended to power, I genuinely believed the most challenging phase was behind us. I anticipated a new era of governance characterized by humility, respect for institutions, and an unwavering dedication to the Senegalese populace. Yet, slowly but surely, my convictions began to erode.

In my experience, internal discourse gradually stifled. Dissent became suspect. The critical spirit, vital for any truly democratic organization, appeared increasingly unwelcome. Many chose silence. Others departed quietly, some out of weariness, others out of profound disappointment.

It was at this juncture that I grasped a crucial truth: the primary threat no longer originated solely from our political adversaries. It could also emerge from within our own operational framework.
Subsequently, I observed a widening chasm between two distinct approaches to wielding power. On one side, there was the President of the Republic fulfilling the responsibilities vested in him by the Constitution. On the other, a political leadership whose influence, to my perception, seemed to extend beyond the traditional boundaries of a mere party head.

To my mind, this duality could not persist indefinitely without generating inherent tensions.
Senegal did not elect a singular savior. It chose republican institutions. In a Republic, no individual, regardless of their popularity, should, in my view, overshadow the foundational rules of the state.

While discussions remain fixated on personalities, the daily concerns of Senegalese citizens persist: the escalating cost of living, youth unemployment, education, healthcare, agriculture, investment, and wealth creation. These are the critical areas where public action must unequivocally concentrate.
My engagement has never been a pledge of allegiance to an individual. It has consistently been a commitment to fundamental principles.
Individuals come and go.
The Republic endures.
Institutions remain steadfast.

And when loyalty to a personality begins to overshadow allegiance to the Republic, it becomes incumbent upon each of us to engage in a profound self-examination of our conscience.

I pen these words not out of resentment, but with solemn gravity. I refuse to abandon the values that first compelled my involvement.

I will continue to serve Senegal with the same unwavering demand: to articulate what I believe is just, to defend our institutions, and to place the national interest above all partisan considerations.
History will ultimately judge individuals.
Conscience, however, renders judgment every single day.
 
By Lababa Faye
Former PASTEF Official