Following Senegal’s political transition, a prominent figure reveals why he declined a key government position to uphold his principles.
From ally to critic: Sakho’s break with Sonko
Lansana Gagny Sakho, once a close associate of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko and now a member of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Kiiraay party, has delivered sharp criticism against his former mentor. Speaking on a national radio program, the Chairman of the APIX Board of Directors recounted his decision to distance himself from Sonko, while defending his commitment to Senegal’s democratic institutions.
Sakho explained that his initial involvement in Sonko’s political movement stemmed from admiration for its leadership. However, after the change in government, he turned down an offer to lead the Water and Sanitation sector—a position many would consider prestigious—to remain true to his values. “I prioritized principles over positions. This decision allowed me to walk away cleanly. From the outset, I chose the Republic,” he asserted.
Accusations against Sonko: a lack of republican commitment
In stark contrast, Sakho accused Ousmane Sonko of “never choosing the Republic.” He pointed to public statements made by Sonko during President Faye’s official visits to the United States and China, where Sonko criticized the government’s leadership—remarks Sakho claimed embarrassed the Head of State.
For Sakho, genuine political choice means safeguarding institutions and strengthening state functionality. While acknowledging challenges on both sides, he highlighted progress, particularly in the justice sector, as evidence of the administration’s achievements.
Judicial independence under scrutiny
Sakho also addressed recent changes at the Ministry of Justice, noting that former Justice Minister Ousmane Diagne had declared before the National Assembly that he could not be manipulated. According to Sakho, the minister’s replacement was an attempt to install a more compliant official to influence judges. “They underestimated the judiciary. Magistrates are not puppets,” he declared, emphasizing that real power dynamics differ from opposition perspectives.
