A significant shift has unfolded in Senegalese politics as President Bassirou Diomaye Faye formally announced the creation of his own political party over the weekend, marking a definitive break from his former ally Ousmane Sonko’s Pastef party.

Once a key figure within the Pastef movement, which Sonko leads, Faye has launched the Parti des Patriotes Républicains, signaling months of simmering tensions reaching their climax. The move comes at a critical juncture amid the nation’s escalating debt crisis, where political power struggles are intensifying.

In the weeks leading up to this announcement, a steady stream of Pastef officials defected to Faye’s camp, including regional leaders and youth wing members. Notably, several figures from the opposition Alliance pour la République have also switched allegiance to Faye’s new movement.

From allies to rivals: the unraveling of a political partnership

Faye and Sonko rose to power together in 2024 under the Pastef banner, an acronym for Patriotes Africains du Sénégal pour le Travail, l’Éthique et la Fraternité. However, their alliance has now collapsed, driven by fundamental disagreements over critical policy decisions—particularly the approach to negotiations with the International Monetary Fund amid Senegal’s severe debt crisis.

A political showdown on the horizon

The establishment of Faye’s new party sets the stage for a fierce political battle with his former ally. This confrontation is expected to unfold prominently in the 2027 local elections and could significantly influence the 2029 presidential campaign.