Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has officially launched a new political party named KIIRAAY – The Republican Patriots, marking a major shift in the country’s political landscape.

The new party replaces the Diomaye Président coalition, the alliance that backed Faye’s successful presidential campaign in 2024.

The launch comes amid an increasingly visible rift between President Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, leader of the ruling Pastef party.

The move is widely seen as signalling Faye’s intention to establish an independent political base ahead of future elections.

Political observers say the creation of KIIRAAY could significantly reshape Senegal’s political landscape by redefining alliances within the governing camp and altering the balance of power between President Faye and his former political ally, Sonko.

The launch is expected to usher in a new chapter in Senegalese politics as both leaders chart separate political paths despite rising to power on a shared platform.