Aminata Touré, overseeing the creation of Senegal’s new presidential party, firmly responded to criticism from opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who labelled the initiative a “political distraction.” Touré declined to directly comment on Sonko’s remarks, emphasizing the need for debate within institutional frameworks and rejecting a "bidding war" of rhetoric. She argued the party's formation is vital for political stability and effective governance, implicitly questioning the legitimacy of Sonko's critiques given Pastef's electoral results. Touré proposed a referendum to allow Senegalese citizens to decide on proposed political reforms, believing direct input is necessary. She clarified the new party aims to consolidate, not fragment, the political landscape by absorbing existing entities. Ultimately, Touré defended the project as a rationalization of the political system, reducing partisan division and fostering broader unity.