Lansana Gagny Sakho on Ousmane Sonko: choosing the Republic over political allegiance

In a candid interview, Lansana Gagny Sakho, Chairman of the Board of the Agency for the Promotion of Investments and Major Works (Agence pour la Promotion des Investissements et Grands Travaux), clarified his stance on the political divide with Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef movement. Sakho emphasized that his commitment has always been to the institutions of the Republic, not to any individual or party.

During his appearance on a national morning show, Sakho recounted his decision to step away from Sonko’s political project, despite initially supporting it. He explained that his alignment with Pastef was driven by admiration for its members, not blind loyalty to its leader. When offered a ministerial position in the water and sanitation sector after the transition, he declined, prioritizing his principles over political favors. « I refused to compromise my values for a position. That decision made my exit straightforward—and it underscored my unwavering choice for the Republic, » he stated.

Ousmane Sonko’s stance on state institutions under scrutiny

Sakho did not mince words when addressing Sonko’s relationship with the Republic. He accused the Pastef leader of consistently undermining state authority, particularly through public statements made during critical moments. One such instance occurred while President Bassirou Diomaye Faye was on official visits to the United States and China. Sonko publicly criticized a perceived lack of governance in Senegal, a remark Sakho described as deeply damaging to the presidency.

For Sakho, the essence of politics lies in strengthening institutions and ensuring their smooth operation. While acknowledging past challenges on both sides of the political spectrum, he highlighted notable progress in Senegal’s justice system as a positive development.

Justice sector reforms spark debate over political interference

Sakho also commented on recent changes at the Ministry of Justice, where Ousmane Diagne, the former Minister of Justice, was replaced. Diagne had once declared before the National Assembly that no one could manipulate him—a statement Sakho interpreted as a refusal to yield to political pressure. However, he dismissed the notion that the reshuffle aimed to install a more compliant minister to sway judicial decisions. « Those who believe magistrates can be controlled like puppets are gravely mistaken, » he asserted. « The realities of power are far more complex than opposition narratives suggest. »

Sakho’s remarks come amid a wave of resignations within Pastef, as several party leaders have publicly shifted their allegiance to President Faye’s administration ahead of the launch of the Kiiraay party. His strong defense of the current government’s policies underscores a broader trend of institutional continuity and stability in Senegal’s evolving political landscape.