In a bold move that has intensified discussions across Senegal’s political landscape, Ndeye Rokhaya Thiam, the newly appointed head of the Senegalese Shippers’ Council (COSEC), has publicly reaffirmed her unwavering loyalty to opposition leader Ousmane Sonko.
Her statement comes at a time when Senegal’s political arena is rife with speculation and shifting alliances, particularly between Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party, and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Thiam’s comments have added a new layer of intrigue to the ongoing power dynamics.
From private advice to public declaration
In a social media post that quickly went viral, Ndeye Rokhaya Thiam shared an anecdote from her recent appointment as COSEC director in May 2024. She revealed that a trusted advisor had urged her to remain steadfast in her support for Sonko, regardless of how the political situation evolves.
The advice, she recounted, was clear: “Politics is unpredictable. Today’s alliances may fade tomorrow, so when that time comes, ensure you stand by Ousmane Sonko. He must always see you by his side.”
Thiam’s message concluded with a cryptic yet decisive remark: “Dear brother, you’ll know who I am. And yes, Ousmane will see me.” This bold declaration has sparked immediate reactions, with many interpreting it as a signal of her long-term commitment to the opposition leader.
Amidst a climate of uncertainty
The timing of her statement is significant. As key figures within state institutions and government agencies face increasing scrutiny over their political leanings, Thiam’s public stance has drawn attention to the broader tensions reshaping Senegal’s political map. Her loyalty to Sonko contrasts sharply with the shifting positions of others in similar roles, further fueling debates about institutional neutrality.
With Senegal’s political future hanging in the balance, Ndeye Rokhaya Thiam’s decision to go on record with her support for Ousmane Sonko underscores the high stakes in the current climate of uncertainty.