Ousmane Sonko and Anta Babacar Ngom file cross-complaints amid rising political tensions

The ARC leader, who is also a legislative candidate running on the Samm Sa Kaddu list led by Dakar Mayor Barthélémy Dias, has accused Sonko and a Pastef official in Diourbel of “complicity in assaults.”

“In Diourbel on November 5, our party’s convoy was subjected to a cowardly and unjustifiable attack. Amid chants and slogans expressing support for the Prime Minister, attackers targeted our caravan,” Ngom claimed.

She further alleged that earlier in the day, an ARC representative in Ndoulo had been physically assaulted by Pastef supporters.

“In the face of repeated provocations, ARC remains committed to its values of peace, democracy, and respect for diverse opinions, and will not succumb to fear or intimidation,” Ngom asserted.

In response, the ruling party’s affiliated Source A reported that Pastef, represented by attorney Me Abdy Ndiaye, has already lodged a complaint against Anta Babacar Ngom and others.

The party’s charges include accusations of being “the main instigators of violence” during an incident in Mbacké.

The legal filing outlines allegations of property destruction, intentional bodily harm, physical violence, and complicity in these actions, according to the source.

The dueling complaints come amid heightened political tensions as the legislative elections approach.

With both parties accusing each other of inciting violence, the exchanges highlight a broader struggle over political influence and security on the campaign trail.

While each side maintains claims of victimization, calls for accountability and peaceful campaigning have echoed from various quarters.

Observers note that the escalating rhetoric and mutual recriminations risk further polarizing supporters, underscoring the critical need for dialogue and measures to ensure electoral integrity and stability.