Pastef-Les Patriotes merges with allied political parties in Dakar, Ousmane Sonko outlines 2029 ambitions
via Lefaso.net4 min read
Pastef-Les Patriotes officially merged with several allied political parties on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Dakar. The ceremony included figures such as Habib Sy, Malick Gakou, and Dame Mbodj, who formalized their alignment with Ousmane Sonko's party. During a speech to militants and new members, the President of Pastef discussed the party's origins, founding values, and political ambitions for 2029. Sonko shared an anecdote about the party's name, "Pastef," stating it originated from his personal reflection during the movement's inception. He emphasized the party's ideological foundation, summarized by the slogan "Don de soi pour la patrie," which he described as disinterested commitment to the country. Sonko also acknowledged the challenges Pastef has faced, including political tensions, dissolutions, and his own imprisonment, but highlighted the resilience of its militant base, which he credits for the party's survival and rise as "the leading party in Senegal." He stressed the importance of expanding the movement's political base, advocating for a structured organization based on merit and engagement, rather than being centered on one individual. Sonko indicated that the current wave of affiliations is ongoing, with many political actors expressing interest in joining Pastef, and urged militants to be open and disciplined in welcoming new members. He positioned his generation's political involvement, particularly Pastef's, as crucial for Senegal's democratic consolidation. L
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