Aldiouma Sow, a key figure in Pastef-Les Patriotes’ National Political Bureau (BPN), has forcefully rebutted claims of a clandestine agreement between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. In a sweeping statement shared on social media, Sow dismissed rumors of a secret pact brokered at the Cap Manuel prison before Faye’s release as baseless fabrications.

The BPN member emphasized that President Faye’s commitment to dialogue reflects a steadfast principle, not a tactical maneuver. « The president’s approach to dialogue isn’t a situational adjustment but a deeply rooted conviction, » Sow asserted. He pointed to the head of state’s extensive engagement in national dialogue initiatives in May 2025 as evidence of this unwavering stance, noting, « He dedicated entire days to these discussions, despite no constitutional, ethical, or moral obligation to do so. »

debunking myths and defending political alliances

Sow’s remarks come amid escalating tensions within Pastef-Les Patriotes, as fractures between its leader, Ousmane Sonko, and the president widen. The BPN member categorically refuted Sonko’s allegations of a secret pact, countering that it was Sonko himself who allegedly secured commitments from other presidential candidates during their time at Cap Manuel. According to Sow, these candidates allegedly pledged—with a hand on the Quran—to relinquish power to Sonko upon assuming office, a claim he described as part of what he terms a « destructive messianic cult. »

Sow warned of a troubling pattern within the party, highlighting past decisions such as the 2022 legislative candidacies, where historical figures were sidelined in favor of last-minute allies. « The same strategy will recur in upcoming elections, spelling political doom for Pastef’s grassroots, » he cautioned, urging party coordinators to reject what he described as a dictatorial messianic trend.

a call for unity and resilience

Addressing ministers who remained in their government posts despite internal pressure, Sow struck a defiant tone. « Stand proud in your choices. Even if you’re banished from party WhatsApp groups or Telegram channels, or suspended from national structures, no one can strip you of your dedication to the patriotic project, » he declared.

In a conciliatory gesture toward undecided party members, Sow urged them to reconsider their alignment with Sonko’s faction before irreversible damage is done. « To those brothers and sisters, cadres, and deputies who may still be swayed by this destructive messianism, there’s still time to change course—don’t lose this opportunity, » he concluded.