Senegal’s political landscape has shifted dramatically with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s official launch of a new political party, signaling a definitive break from his former ally and former ruling party leader Ousmane Sonko.

The newly formed Parti des Patriotes Républicains marks a major turning point for Faye, who previously led the Pastef alongside Sonko. The move follows months of escalating tensions over key policy decisions, particularly regarding debt management negotiations with the International Monetary Fund amid a severe financial crisis.

Over recent weeks, a growing number of Pastef officials resigned to join Faye’s camp, including regional leaders and youth section members. Several figures from the opposition Alliance pour la République have also switched allegiance to Faye’s new movement.

Faye and Sonko rose to power together in 2024 under the Pastef banner—an acronym for Patriotes Africains du Sénégal pour le Travail, l’Éthique et la Fraternité. Their alliance, forged to secure the 2024 presidential election, has now collapsed over fundamental disagreements about handling the IMF loan program and debt restructuring.

The new party’s creation sets the stage for a high-stakes political confrontation between former allies. With local elections scheduled for 2027 and presidential elections looming in 2029, the fallout from this split could reshape Senegal’s political future.