Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly labels Ousmane Sonko “the greatest manipulator” in Sénégal’s political arena


A direct challenge to the Pastef leader

The political climate in Sénégal remains exceptionally tense, driven by the ongoing constitutional reform and the intricate relationships among key figures from both the majority and opposition. This Sunday, Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly, who formerly led the PDS parliamentary group, launched a blistering attack on Ousmane Sonko.

During a highly assertive address, he branded the Pastef leader as “the greatest manipulator on the political stage,” criticizing him for adopting contradictory stances and making repeated, unsubstantiated allegations.

Grave accusations across multiple sensitive issues

The former deputy specifically referenced several high-profile incidents that have dominated Senegalese political discourse in recent years. These include the Adji Sarr affair, allegations concerning supposed payments of 10 million F CFA to members of parliament, and the persistent rumor of a public account purportedly holding 1,000 billion F CFA.

According to Dolly, these assertions have never been substantiated. “The deputies never received the 10 million he spoke of. It was false,” he declared, casting doubt on the veracity of Ousmane Sonko’s past statements.

Sonko’s political consistency under scrutiny

Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly further accused the current President of the National Assembly of retracting some of his earlier positions. He suggested that Sonko’s political narrative has shifted significantly, now contradicting his initial commitments.

Dolly asserted that the former Prime Minister has progressively moved away from the reformist agenda he once championed, instead adopting a stance primarily focused on his own political ambitions.

Insights into past political dealings

The former PDS parliamentary official also shed light on past interactions between Ousmane Sonko and various political figures, claiming that discussions had taken place regarding potential electoral alliances.

He further maintained that these discussions allegedly involved Karim Wade concerning a potential presidential candidacy. Dolly also stated that Sonko reportedly expressed a desire that no other Pastef officials should represent the party in such a capacity.

Constitutional debate at the core of tensions

Finally, Modou Mbacké Bara Dolly revisited the controversy surrounding the constitutional review. In his view, the ongoing debate transcends President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s individual role and directly impacts the nation’s institutional stability.

He believes that certain current initiatives are designed to fundamentally alter the structure of power, a prospect he firmly rejects.

“This is not about Diomaye; it is about the Constitution,” he concluded.