The leader of Pastef kicked off a weekend tour in Bargny, marking the start of a broader campaign to engage militants in selling party membership cards. Departing from Keur Gorgui, Sonko set out to connect with activists and reinforce the momentum behind this critical initiative.

Upon arrival in Bargny, the opposition leader was greeted by a sea of supporters and political figures. Addressing the crowd, he emphasized that the membership drive was a cornerstone for the party’s future success. “I came here to encourage our militants to push this campaign forward,” he declared, urging local leaders to take charge of the effort.

Sonko framed the membership drive as a vital step in preparing for upcoming elections, noting that the enthusiasm in Bargny reflected the party’s deep roots in the community. “Selling these membership cards will shape the outcome of the next elections,” he asserted, underscoring the campaign’s strategic importance.

The opposition figure also took time to acknowledge the challenges faced by residents of Bargny during the previous administration. He expressed solidarity with the community, vowing to remember their struggles. “I saw what you endured under Macky Sall. I want you to know that Bargny has not been forgotten,” he told the crowd.

Pastef’s political ambitions and current hurdles

Sonko acknowledged the obstacles facing Pastef’s vision, including accountability, political violence, and development challenges. “We still lack the tools to fully realize our ambitions,” he admitted, while reaffirming his confidence in the party’s progress since assuming power.

He called on militants to remain disciplined amid political tensions, stressing that the membership campaign was essential for consolidating the party’s political project. “We are 80% of the way to our goal,” he noted. “The remaining 20% depends on our collective efforts—so stay focused and avoid distractions.”