Ousmane Sonko resumes membership drive after Magal, targets one million adherents


Following a hiatus for the Grand Magal de Touba celebrations, Pastef President Ousmane Sonko has reignited his vigorous membership acquisition campaign. This initiative, initially launched with fanfare in Touba during the “48H Pastef” event, has since seen Sonko traverse numerous localities. The tour previously mobilized significant crowds in Bargny, Sébikotane, Khombole, and Bambey, followed by impactful visits to Keur Madiabel and Mbacké. Each stop was marked by fervent support, echoing the intense mobilization witnessed on July 26th, coincidentally the same day the new presidential party, Kiiraay, was officially unveiled.

This renewed push is integral to Pastef’s ambitious objective: to enlist one million new members before the October deadline. Sonko himself underscored this aspiration during his visit to Mbacké, where he specifically challenged the department to contribute substantially, famously declaring its potential to yield a million adherents on its own. The overwhelming enthusiasm at earlier campaign events often led to a rapid depletion of membership cards within hours, compelling the party to arrange swift replenishments to keep pace with the high demand.

The campaign’s resumption unfolds against a backdrop of escalating political tensions. A notable rift has emerged between Ousmane Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Concurrently, the recent launch of the presidential party Kiiraay has prompted several key Pastef figures to depart in recent weeks. Addressing these defections, the party leader recently urged his loyalists to refrain from commenting on the departures and instead maintain unwavering focus on the ongoing campaign’s strategic objectives. This is crucial for understanding current Africa politics English.