June 28, 2026

The African Tribune

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Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly labels Ousmane Sonko ‘the greatest political manipulator’ in Senegal


A direct challenge to the Pastef leader

The political atmosphere in Sénégal remains notably tense, particularly concerning the ongoing constitutional reform and the intricate relationships between key figures in both the majority and opposition camps. This Sunday, Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly, who formerly presided over the PDS parliamentary group, launched a blistering attack on Ousmane Sonko.

During a highly confrontational address, he characterized the Pastef leader as “the greatest manipulator on the political stage,” criticizing him for holding contradictory stances and repeatedly making unsubstantiated allegations.

Allegations spanning several sensitive issues

The former deputy specifically referenced several high-profile cases that have dominated Sénégal’s political discourse in recent years. These include the prominent Adji Sarr affair, claims regarding alleged payments of 10 million F CFA to members of parliament, and the widely circulated rumor of a public account purportedly holding 1,000 billion F CFA.

According to Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly, these assertions have never been substantiated. “The deputies never received the 10 million he spoke of. That was false,” he declared, casting doubt on the veracity of Ousmane Sonko’s past statements.

Questioning Sonko’s political consistency

Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly further accused the current President of the National Assembly of retracting some of his earlier positions. He believes that Sonko’s political rhetoric has shifted significantly, now contradicting his initial commitments.

He asserted that the former Prime Minister has gradually moved away from the philosophy of “rupture” he once championed, adopting instead a stance primarily focused on his own political ambitions.

Disclosures about past political connections

The former PDS parliamentary leader also touched upon the historical interactions between Ousmane Sonko and various political figures, claiming that discussions had taken place regarding potential electoral alliances.

Moreover, he contended that these discussions allegedly involved Karim Wade concerning a prospective presidential candidacy. Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly also suggested that Sonko had expressed a desire for no other Pastef officials to represent the party’s colors.

Constitutional debate at the heart of the friction

Finally, Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the constitutional revision. He argued that the current debate extends beyond merely President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s role and directly impacts the nation’s institutional stability.

He believes that certain initiatives presently underway aim to fundamentally alter the structure of power, a prospect he unequivocally rejects.

“This is not about Diomaye; it is about the Constitution,” he concluded emphatically.