Since the creation of the Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS) on July 31, 1974, following the Kaolack Congress, Thiès has emerged as the second strategic city targeted by the "Pope of Sopi," Abdoulaye Wade, to establish a solid political base. He then entrusted the leadership of the party in the railway city to the late Boubacar Sall, nicknamed the "Lion of Cayor," in whom he placed his complete trust.

In a statement released today, the Liberals of the "Rebel City" emphasized the historical and emotional ties between the people of Thiès and their leader. "No disappointment: the blue and yellow flag flew in every corner of our beloved city," declared Mor Diouf, Secretary General of the Thiès Urban Federation of the PDS (Senegalese Democratic Party). According to him, Abdoulaye Wade always held Thiès "in his heart," stressing that the party's long years in opposition, as well as the strategies that led to the 2000 political transition, bear a strong imprint on the city. "Every family has at least one current or former PDS activist, so deeply rooted was the party there," he insisted.

The Liberals also point out that upon assuming the presidency on February 28, 2000, Abdoulaye Wade relied heavily on elites from Thiès to form his first government. "Thiès got the lion's share," argues Mor Diouf, citing the appointment of numerous officials from the city to key positions: Prime Ministers, ministers, directors general, members of parliament, as well as significant recruitment in the administration and education sectors.

In this context, the former head of state initiated the decentralization of the Independence Day celebrations, with the first edition held in Thiès, seen as a symbol of the privileged link between the city and the central government. This initiative, they believed, had generated great hopes in terms of economic and social benefits.

The Liberals also commend Idrissa Seck for his role in transforming the municipality, despite political tensions. Today, they welcome Thiès' renewed selection to host this year's Independence Day celebrations and express their gratitude to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

Mor Diouf and his comrades pledge to massively mobilize PDS activists to ensure the event's success. They call for exemplary organization, coordinated by the army, territorial administration, and local authorities.

They also commend the beautification efforts undertaken by the municipality, led by Mayor Babacar Diop, as well as the involvement of the mayors of the district municipalities of Thiès-Est, Thiès-Ouest and Thiès-Nord.