Football sometimes has this strange power: it suspends political time. For several days, Senegalese people had eyes only for the Lions. The disappointment against Belgium dominated debates, television studios, and social media. But while the country was discussing Pape Thiaw's choices, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye was preparing for another match. A political one.

The announcement of the creation of his own party is not a simple organizational adjustment. It is a founding act. And above all, an admission. The break with Ousmane Sonko is now complete.

For several months, the signs had been piling up. Sonko's departure from the Prime Minister's office, the increasingly visible disagreements, the silences that had become oppressive... All that was missing was an official act. It has now been done.

The head of state justifies his initiative by the need to give his coalition a "more organic unity." The argument is understandable. Governing with several hundred parties and movements is often a real headache. But no one is fooled. In politics, the timing often speaks louder than words.

Why announce a new party just hours before the launch of Pastef membership card sales? Why mobilize more than 300 mayors when, at the same time, Pastef chooses to gauge its strength among its grassroots supporters? Everyone is counting their troops.

On one side, Sonko is counting on popular mobilization and the loyalty of a youth that continues to see him as the symbol of a struggle. On the other, Diomaye is seeking to consolidate a network of elected officials—most of whom voted against him in 2024—capable of wielding influence in the upcoming local elections. Two strategies. Two sources of legitimacy. Two ambitions.

This battle goes far beyond the question of an acronym or a logo. It opens a new chapter in Senegalese political life. For the first time, two men who embodied the same project will have to convince voters separately.

The most delicate issue undoubtedly lies elsewhere. For years, Senegalese people have heard talk of loyalty, fraternity, political solidarity, and principled governance. Today, these same actors are taking different paths. The voters will decide.

One thing remains certain: trust is the most precious currency in politics. It is hard-won and easily lost. Therefore, creating a new party will not only be an organizational challenge for Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Above all, it will be a test of credibility.

And in this game that's only just beginning, cards alone won't be enough. You'll have to convince people.