The High Authority for Party Regulation (HARP) of PASTEF-Les Patriotes has finalized its provisional list of candidates for the party’s presidential election, revealing a decisive outcome. After meticulously reviewing all submitted declarations before the May 20, 2026 deadline, the regulatory body, led by Mouhamadou Ngouda Mboup, validated just one candidacy—the incumbent leader, Ousmane Sonko. All other applications were rejected due to administrative and statutory irregularities.

Majority of candidacies disqualified over financial and procedural lapses

The HARP’s detailed report outlines the specific reasons behind the rejection of the seven other aspirants. For Alassane Sow and El Hadji Moussa Gueye, the authority cited an “irreparable irregularity,” noting their failure to meet membership fee obligations as required under Article 16 of the party’s internal regulations.

Several other rejections stemmed from technical oversights or missing documentation. Lat Grant Dione’s application was dismissed for lacking the mandatory declaration addressed to the HARP president. Meanwhile, Pape Alioune Badara Gueye and El Hadji Madior Diop had incomplete identification files, missing either the reverse side of their National Identity Card or their membership card. The case of El Hadji Leyty Thiam took an unexpected turn when he formally withdrew his candidacy in writing, declaring his support for Ousmane Sonko’s bid instead.

Deadline for appeals set as final candidate list nears

Following the May 21, 2026 special session—attended by HARP leadership including Mouhamadou Ngouda Mboup, Fatimata Sira Sarr, Mamadou Salif Sané, and Baye Niasse—procedures for appeals have been activated. According to Article 3 of the decision, candidates may submit formal complaints until 5:00 PM on May 22, 2026. After this deadline and the resolution of any disputes, the definitive list of presidential aspirants for PASTEF will be formally established.