In a strategic move to energize his party’s grassroots mobilization, Ousmane Sonko, leader of Pastef, launched a campaign stop in Bargny, a coastal town in Senegal. The visit marked the first leg of a broader tour that will take him through Sébikotane, Khombole, and Bambey in the coming days.

The high-energy gathering drew a massive turnout of supporters, party officials, and local leaders eager to rally behind the membership card sales initiative. Addressing the crowd from Keur Gorgui, Sonko emphasized the campaign’s pivotal role in shaping the party’s future electoral strategy.

« This isn’t a time for speeches—I’m here to push for full participation in the membership drive, » Sonko declared, urging local organizers and activists to double down on efforts to meet their targets. He framed the campaign as a critical foundation for upcoming elections, citing the enthusiasm in Bargny as proof of Pastef’s deep roots in communities.

« Selling these cards will secure our electoral future, » he asserted, drawing cheers from the assembled crowd. Sonko also took the opportunity to acknowledge the hardships endured by Bargny’s residents under the previous administration, vowing solidarity. « I haven’t forgotten what you went through, » he said, referencing past political struggles in the area.

Confronting challenges ahead

While celebrating the party’s progress, Sonko acknowledged ongoing hurdles, including accountability concerns, political violence, and development gaps. « We still lack the tools to fully realize our vision, » he admitted, yet remained optimistic about the momentum building since Pastef’s rise to power.

Urging discipline in the face of rising tensions, he called on members to stay focused on the membership drive, which he said was already 80% complete. « The remaining 20% is within reach—let’s finish this together, » he concluded, warning against distractions or provocations that could derail their progress.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter