Ousmane Sonko reveals secret Cap Manuel deal with Bassirou Diomaye Faye

In a dramatic revelation, opposition leader Ousmane Sonko has publicly sworn an oath about a secret political agreement struck with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye before Senegal’s 2024 presidential election. The claim, made under oath and invoking divine witnesses, centers on what Sonko terms the ‘Cap Manuel Protocol’—a behind-the-scenes pact allegedly negotiated during his imprisonment.

An oath sworn before God

The former Prime Minister insists the agreement was not just a verbal understanding but a formal commitment. Speaking to journalists, Sonko described how the future president visited him in Cap Manuel prison to discuss the future of their political movement during a tense period when election postponement was being seriously debated.

« There was truly a Cap Manuel Protocol, » Sonko declared, emphasizing that he rejected any suggestion of delaying the vote. « I told him: I have chosen you. If we win, we will govern. In 2029, we will return to our original plan. »

To reinforce his credibility, Sonko invoked religious solemnity, stating: « I swear this before God and the Holy Quran. »

Faye’s acceptance of political terms

According to Sonko, Bassirou Diomaye Faye accepted the proposed framework, framing his upcoming presidency as a period dedicated to difficult but necessary reforms.

« He told me: this mandate will be one of tough reforms. I take them upon myself, and you will then have a clear path forward, » Sonko recounted.

He also claimed that Faye dismissed the need for witnesses, asserting that their mutual trust made such precautions unnecessary. Sonko added that Faye even invoked his own son, sharing that he would consider his legacy if ever tempted to betray the agreement.

Election 2029: a future role for Sonko

The discussion also allegedly addressed the 2029 presidential election. Sonko stated he made it clear that Faye’s continued adherence to the agreement would determine his own political future.

« I told him if he honors this path, I will support his candidacy in 2029. If not, I will run myself, » Sonko said.

He asserted that Faye’s response was definitive: « He told me he would be my campaign manager, » Sonko concluded.

These revelations come at a time of escalating tension between the two former allies, reigniting questions about the behind-the-scenes arrangements that preceded Senegal’s 2024 political transition.