The presidential camp wasted no time in responding to what it deemed as scandalous remarks and personal attacks directed at President Bassirou Diomaye Faye by Pastef leader Ousmane Sonko.

During the inauguration of his party’s headquarters in Touba on July 12, 2026, Sonko accused the president of prioritizing political ambitions over national interests, citing Senegal’s overwhelming public debt and the lack of an IMF agreement. “Senegalese citizens must know they are not the prime concern of Diomaye Faye,” Sonko declared to his supporters.

The ruling coalition swiftly dismissed these claims, emphasizing that the president is committed to improving living conditions for all citizens. In a strongly worded statement, the coalition accused Sonko of favoring perpetual confrontation over constructive dialogue.