DAKAR – A significant chapter in Senegalese politics has just begun. This Saturday, July 25, 2026, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye definitively formalized his political separation from former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko by officially inaugurating his own political formation, named « Kiiraay » (meaning ‘shield’ in Wolof).

« Kiiraay is the majority party in this country, » declared Bassirou Diomaye Faye, addressing an enthusiastic crowd of supporters during the inaugural gathering.

« Patriotes républicains » serves as the slogan for this new political entity. According to the Head of State, Kiiraay is built upon five core values: the Republic, ethics, transparency, fraternity, and diligent work.

Acknowledging the journey undertaken and the recent political tensions that led to this divergence, the President of the Republic offered a poignant metaphor to convey his renewed commitment:

« Public life has its sowing and its harvests; it also has its seasons of disappointment (…) Here I am, therefore, in the fields. Dear Republican Patriots, today we entrust a new seed to the Senegalese soil, » he announced.

Leaders of the newly formed political movement have already announced that a major founding congress will take place once the summer rainy season concludes. This pivotal event will establish Kiiraay’s strategic directions and formalize its organizational structure, as the Senegalese political landscape embarks on an unprecedented reconfiguration.