Senegal: Malick Gackou rallies Pastef members amid Kiiraay’s rise

Malick Gackou, former minister and prominent leader of Pastef, has delivered a firm call to party members, urging them to uphold unity and collective discipline as new political factions like Kiiraay emerge, threatening to fragment the movement’s founding ideals.
As several Pastef officials and activists announce their transition to Kiiraay—Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s new political platform—the Patriotes Républicains—Pastef’s secretary-general is rallying troops to remain steadfast and cohesive. With the upcoming political milestones looming, Malick Gackou is doubling down on his message of unwavering loyalty to the party’s sovereign vision.
In a direct address to Patriotes, the former cabinet member emphasized the critical need for discipline and adherence to the principles that shaped Pastef’s political journey. For Gackou, the movement’s resilience hinges on the unity and exemplary conduct of its leaders, who must serve as role models for the broader membership.
« Preserving our sovereign ambitions and reinforcing President Ousmane Sonko’s leadership requires unbroken unity and public service excellence. Our credibility as a movement stems from the integrity of those who represent it, » he stressed. Gackou framed exemplarity as the cornerstone of Pastef’s strength, urging members to stay the course despite internal turbulence.
This public stance follows the recent surge of Kiiraay, presented by its founders as the presidential party aligned with Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Multiple former Pastef affiliates have already defected, citing their commitment to supporting the Head of State’s agenda. In response, Gackou is mobilizing the base, reinforcing cohesion, and safeguarding the party’s unity ahead of pivotal political deadlines.



