Lansana Gagny Sakho on Ousmane Sonko and the choice for institutions

Lansana Gagny Sakho defends his allegiance to the Republic

During an appearance on a national morning program, Lansana Gagny Sakho, Chairman of the Board of the APIX, shared his perspective on his political shift away from Ousmane Sonko while firmly standing by his commitment to institutional values. He explained that while he initially joined the Pastef movement because of the individuals behind it, he declined a key ministerial offer in the water and sanitation sector to uphold his principles. “My priorities were never about positions but about preserving my integrity,” he stated. “From the start, I made the choice for the Republic.”

The rift between Sakho and Sonko grows

Lansana Gagny Sakho went further, directly criticizing Ousmane Sonko for what he views as a persistent disregard for the Republic. He highlighted public statements by Sonko, made while President Faye was abroad in the United States and China, which questioned the government’s authority. According to Sakho, these remarks undermined the head of state’s credibility and deepened divisions within the administration.

Institutions above personal interests

For Sakho, the essence of governance lies in strengthening state institutions rather than pursuing divisive rhetoric. While acknowledging past challenges on both sides, he emphasized the progress achieved, particularly in reforming the justice sector. He also dismissed claims that the recent reshuffle at the Ministry of Justice aimed to install a pliable minister, pointing out that magistrates operate independently. “Judges are not puppets, and power dynamics are more complex than opposition figures perceive,” he remarked.

Support for President Faye’s leadership

Lansana Gagny Sakho has repeatedly voiced his backing for President Diomaye Faye’s policies, emphasizing the need for institutional continuity and stability. His latest statement comes amid a wave of resignations from the Pastef party, as several former members align with the presidential camp ahead of the launch of the Kiiraay party.