Lansana Gagny Sakho clarifies stance on Ousmane Sonko and Senegal’s institutions

In a recent appearance on a national morning show, Lansana Gagny Sakho, Chairman of the Board of Directors of APIX, addressed his split from Ousmane Sonko while reaffirming his commitment to Senegal’s republican institutions. He explained that his initial alignment with the Pastef movement stemmed from admiration for its leaders, not necessarily its ideology. Following the political transition, he turned down a high-profile government role in the water and sanitation sector to uphold his principles. « I prioritized my convictions over positions of power. That decision allowed me to leave without conflict. From the start, I chose the Republic, » he stated.

Contrasting his own path, Sakho questioned Sonko’s dedication to Senegal’s institutions. He criticized the opposition leader for publicly undermining state authority during President Faye’s official visits abroad, including trips to the United States and China. « Sonko never embraced the Republic, » Sakho asserted, arguing that such rhetoric exacerbated divisions within the government.

For Sakho, political leadership is about strengthening institutions and enhancing governance. While acknowledging challenges faced by both sides, he highlighted progress in key areas like judicial reform. He referenced the recent reshuffle at the Ministry of Justice, where the former Minister, Ousmane Diagne, had claimed independence from external influence. Sakho dismissed suggestions that the change aimed to install a compliant official, emphasizing the judiciary’s resilience. « Magistrates are no one’s puppets. The realities of power are far different from what opposition figures perceive, » he noted.

Sakho’s remarks come amid a wave of defections from Pastef, with several party members joining President Diomaye Faye’s camp ahead of the launch of the Kiiraay party. His unwavering support for Faye’s policies underscores his focus on institutional continuity and national stability.