Political competition intensifies in Bignona between Kiiraay and PASTEF

The political landscape in Bignona, Senegal, is undergoing a period of recomposition as the Kiiraay party (also known as the Republican Patriots) seeks to establish itself as a major force. Led by local figures such as Lamine Badji and Aba Boubane, Kiiraay is focusing on grassroots mobilization and youth engagement to contest the commune and department in the 2027 elections.

In response to recent defections to Kiiraay, PASTEF leaders held a meeting in Sindian to reaffirm their loyalty to Ousmane Sonko. Vieux Souleymane Goudiaby, representing the gathering, dismissed claims that new memberships in Kiiraay have weakened the party, citing a previous 85% score in legislative elections as evidence of PASTEF's strength. He described the Bignona department as a ‘land title’ for Sonko.

PASTEF departmental coordinator and minister Yankhoba Diémé also defended the party's dominance, asserting that Bignona remains a stronghold and has not suffered electoral defeats under his coordination. The competing parties continue to vie for influence in the Casamance region through field operations and local engagement.