Key ministers abandon Pastef, declaring it an “empty shell” in Senegal’s political landscape

Yankhoba Diémé : « Pourquoi il ne reste plus rien au Pastef »

A significant political upheaval is reshaping the Senegalese landscape as three prominent ministers, including Yankhoba Diémé, have announced their departure from Pastef to actively support President Diomaye. They have candidly described Ousmane Sonko’s former party as nothing more than an “empty shell,” indicating a profound shift in political alliances.

Ministers Ibrahima Sy, Yankhoba Diémé, and Alioune Dione have decisively distanced themselves from Pastef. These individuals, who were once key figures alongside Ousmane Sonko before his tenure as Prime Minister, have now solidified their new political allegiances.

Their decision was unequivocal. Despite their past as fervent opponents of Macky Sall, aligning with Ousmane Sonko in his struggles years ago, they now declare their commitment to “the Republic” above any personal interests.

“There is nothing left of Pastef. It has become an empty shell,” stated Yankhoba Diémé, who previously served as Pastef’s departmental coordinator in Bignona, delivering a pointed critique. Echoing this sentiment, Alioune Dione, a former Pastef political leader in Diourbel, affirmed, “I pledge, along with all my brethren, to join and become part of President Diomaye’s party.”