Abass Fall Calls Out Aminata Touré Over Controversial Statements

DAKAR, Senegal — A public dispute between two key figures in Senegal’s ruling coalition has exposed deepening tensions within the political alliance supporting President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as accusations of factionalism and disrespect for state institutions dominate the discourse.

On Monday, Dakar Mayor Abass Fall publicly criticized Aminata Touré, the general supervisor of the “Diomaye Président” coalition, accusing her of hypocrisy in her recent statements about political alliances. The clash centers on allegations that the coalition had integrated the activist group “Sonko Dégage,” led by Ardo Gning, which has been known for its inflammatory rhetoric against state institutions and public figures. Fall’s remarks, published by Senenews, framed Touré’s denials as contradictory to the coalition’s purported values of institutional respect and responsible discourse.

Touré’s Denial and Coalition Stance

Aminata Touré swiftly responded to the allegations in a formal statement, categorically denying that the “Diomaye Président” coalition had welcomed “Sonko Dégage” or any other group known for insulting institutions or engaging in online harassment. “The coalition Diomaye Président denies having welcomed into its ranks movements or public figures known for having made insults on social networks or for attacking institutions,” Touré stated, as reported in primary sources.

Touré acknowledged that an application for membership had been submitted but was rejected following a verification process. “An integration attempt did indeed take place, but after verification and identification, the general supervisor opposed it,” she added. The coalition’s statement reaffirmed its commitment to “responsible public discourse” and respect for all institutions, public officials, and individuals.

Fall’s Accusations and Broader Political Frictions

In his public remarks, Abass Fall, a prominent figure within the ruling coalition, suggested that Touré’s denials were inconsistent with the coalition’s actions. While the exact wording of Fall’s statement was not fully reproduced in the primary sources, his critique appeared to question the coalition’s integrity, implying that Touré’s stance was selective or politically motivated. The dispute reflects broader tensions within the coalition, particularly between factions loyal to President Faye and those aligned with Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.

Primary sources indicate that the coalition has been grappling with internal divisions, including high-profile departures from its WhatsApp communication groups and public criticisms of leadership decisions. The inclusion—or perceived inclusion—of controversial groups like “Sonko Dégage” has become a flashpoint, with some members accusing others of undermining the coalition’s credibility through association with groups known for disruptive rhetoric.

Context of the Coalition’s Formation

The “Diomaye Président” coalition was formed to support President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s 2024 electoral campaign, uniting various political and civil society groups under a platform of reform and institutional renewal. Aminata Touré, a former prime minister and justice minister of Senegal, has been a central figure in the coalition’s leadership, positioning it as a force for stability and respect for democratic norms.

However, the coalition’s unity has been tested by competing agendas and personal rivalries. The recent dispute between Fall and Touré is the latest in a series of public disagreements that have raised questions about the coalition’s ability to maintain a cohesive front. Primary sources suggest that the friction stems from differing interpretations of the coalition’s mission, with some members advocating for a more inclusive approach to political alliances, while others, like Touré, insist on strict adherence to principles of institutional respect.

President Faye’s Position and Broader Implications

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has not publicly commented on the dispute between Fall and Touré. However, in a November 2025 meeting with senior figures from his political party, PASTEF, Faye emphasized his commitment to unity within the ruling coalition. “I will never harm Sonko,” Faye reportedly stated, referencing Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, in a gesture aimed at calming tensions between competing factions.

The ongoing feud between coalition leaders risks undermining the government’s stability at a time when Senegal is navigating economic challenges and regional security concerns. The coalition’s ability to present a united front is critical to its credibility, both domestically and internationally. If internal divisions persist, they could weaken the government’s capacity to implement its policy agenda and maintain public trust.

What Comes Next

As of Monday, neither Abass Fall nor Aminata Touré has indicated a willingness to reconcile publicly. The coalition’s leadership has not issued any further statements addressing the broader implications of the dispute, nor has it outlined steps to mediate the conflict. Observers note that the outcome of this feud could set the tone for future political alliances and the coalition’s ability to govern effectively.

For now, the “Diomaye Président” coalition remains intact in name, but the public airing of grievances between its leaders has highlighted the fragility of its internal cohesion. The dispute serves as a reminder of the challenges facing Senegal’s ruling alliance as it seeks to balance political expediency with its stated commitment to institutional respect and responsible governance.