The statement from Moussa Bala Fofana, the Minister of Urbanism, Territorial Collectivities, and Spatial Planning, emerges during a politically charged period marked by internal discord within PASTEF and ongoing discussions regarding the allegiance of officials retained in the current government.

In a public declaration, the Minister sought to clarify his position following comments made by the party president, Ousmane Sonko. Sonko had previously alluded to certain executive members who, in his view, were not fully aligning with the party’s political directives. Fofana, who has been reappointed for a third term, initially underscored the principle of state continuity and expressed profound gratitude to Head of State Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

During his address, Moussa Bala Fofana affirmed that he had received the renewed trust of the President of the Republic, hailing it as an institutional honor. He noted that he had not known Bassirou Diomaye Faye personally before their political faction came to power, but had since discovered a collaborative work environment focused on implementing public policies. He also highlighted his previous collaboration with Ousmane Sonko, now the President of the National Assembly, whom he described as a pivotal figure in the original political project. The Minister emphasized that the personal and political relationships forged during that period remain robust despite any current disparities.

Responding more directly to remarks attributed to Ousmane Sonko in his statement of June 2, 2026, Moussa Bala Fofana distanced himself from any interpretation suggesting a breach of commitment or partisan disobedience. He stated unequivocally: “Yes, I acted with complete freedom and in a personal capacity.” The Minister further explained that his decision to remain in government was not driven by career ambitions or a desire for defiance, but by his personal interpretation of his public responsibilities. He stressed that no political pressure influenced his choice.

Continuing his argument, the Minister spoke of a necessary balance between party discipline and national responsibility. He clarified that he chose to prioritize what he considers the continuation of pledges made to citizens during the 2024 campaign. In his own words, this was a decision guided by conscience and duty: “Between a partisan logic and my duty to the Nation, I chose to continue the mission entrusted to me.” This stance, he asserted, is rooted in a philosophy of public service where the general interest must take precedence over immediate political considerations.

Moussa Bala Fofana also highlighted the personal and political dimensions of his commitment, accepting the potential ramifications of his position. He implicitly acknowledged the tensions his decision might generate within his former partisan circles, while affirming his readiness to accept any criticism or misunderstanding. He emphasized a deliberate departure from the pursuit of popularity, opting instead for administrative continuity and the execution of public policies, which he considers paramount in the current climate. Finally, the Minister concluded with a broader perspective on the political landscape, reminding everyone that national issues transcend party affiliations. He declared that “Sénégal is greater than each of us” and proclaimed his fidelity to what he terms his “loyalty to conscience and public service.”