In Senegal’s political landscape, opposition figures have largely retreated to Dakar’s conference rooms, leaving only a handful of leaders who continue to engage directly with citizens. While many have confined themselves to issuing statements or holding closed-door meetings, Barthélémy Dias, Maguette Sène, and a few others are defying the trend by taking their campaigns to the streets.

Opposition figures who choose the ground over rhetoric

Unlike their peers affiliated with the Front pour la défense de la République et de la démocratie (FDR), who limit their activities to Dakar-based debates, these leaders prioritize ground-level engagement. Barthélémy Dias, Maguette Sène, and others have shifted away from the political ping-pong between Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye, instead focusing on initiatives that resonate with voters.

Sociologist Alioune Badara Kandji emphasizes the importance of this approach: “Politics is measured by action on the ground. Only direct engagement with citizens fosters genuine understanding and trust.” He notes that figures like Dias and Sène are adopting the right strategies, avoiding fruitless attacks on rivals in favor of constructive outreach.

Barthélémy Dias: A tireless campaigner

Since launching his Sénégal Bi Ñu Bokk movement in May 2025, the former Dakar mayor has made ground-level outreach a cornerstone of his strategy. His efforts extend beyond Senegal’s borders, with international tours in the United States, Europe, and several African nations. Closer to home, he has introduced initiatives like Dokh Mbokk, a philosophy centered on direct dialogue with citizens. Recently, he has been traversing Dakar’s neighborhoods, meeting residents face-to-face to reinforce his movement’s grassroots support.

Maguette Sène: Mobilizing through coalition-building

Maguette Sène, leading the And Liguey Gokh Yi – La Marche des Territoires coalition—a group of over thirty organizations—has taken a similarly hands-on approach. Appointed coalition coordinator in August 2026, Sène has prioritized establishing party cells across the country. His focus remains on addressing citizens’ challenges rather than getting entangled in internal party disputes.

Dr. Macoumba Diouf, First Vice-President of the coalition, underscores this commitment: “Our job is to stand by the people, not to referee conflicts between former allies. That’s where our energy belongs.”

Other voices in the opposition

The landscape also includes former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, Serigne Mboup, Mansour Faye, and Moustapha Diop, who occasionally appear in public or on social media to highlight their political activities. While their presence may be less frequent, their engagement reflects a broader shift toward grassroots politics.