The movement of African Patriots of Senegal for work, ethics and fraternity (Pastef) continues to make headlines, even after being dissolved by the Senegalese authorities and its leader imprisoned. Pastef supporters have found a new way to make themselves heard by “sonkorizing” cultural, sporting or everyday events. This mobilization strategy, which consists of expressing support for Ousmane Sonko and demanding his release, has become more and more frequent in recent weeks.
The term “sonkorizing” was born to describe this practice. Pastef supporters take advantage of public rallies to chant slogans in favor of their imprisoned leader. Whether at concerts, football matches or even weddings, Pastef supporters make themselves heard and use social networks to broadcast their actions.
For political experts, this “sonkorisation” strategy is both an attempt at survival of Pastef, after its dissolution, but also proof of the organization and mobilization of its supporters. By exploiting public events, Pastef supporters seek to maintain their visibility and reiterate their support for Ousmane Sonko.
This initiative also shows the importance of social networks in political communication. By using online communication tools, Pastef supporters manage to mobilize their supporters, including those from the Senegalese diaspora, who can provide support more easily from abroad.
Despite the dissolution of the movement and the imprisonment of its leader, Pastef thus managed to maintain a certain influence in the Senegalese political landscape. Supporters of the movement continue to speak out and defend their ideals, despite the obstacles that stand in their way.
In conclusion, the “sonkorisation” strategy used by Pastef supporters demonstrates their determination to support Ousmane Sonko and maintain their political presence, despite the difficulties encountered. This mobilization, combined with the use of social networks, offers the movement a platform to express their demands and demand the release of their leader. Pastef thus continues to draw attention to its fight and to rally supporters to its cause.