In a candid interview, Senegal’s Minister Yankhoba Diémé addressed the escalating tensions between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, labeling the latter’s rhetoric as a deliberate strategy of victimization intended to sway public perception.
Diémé argued that Sonko’s repeated portrayal of himself as a victim obscures the truth, stating: “This narcissistic tendency, combined with a history of questionable actions, risks distorting reality to the point where the aggressor is seen as the victim.” He suggested that such tactics are designed to undermine the credibility of President Faye by shifting blame onto the current administration.
Compensation for former detainees: Diémé clears the air
Addressing delays in compensating former detainees, the minister dismissed allegations that President Faye was responsible. “The claim that delays stem from the President’s inaction is baseless,” he asserted. “During a Council of Ministers meeting, he explicitly instructed the Prime Minister and the Minister for Family Affairs to expedite the process.”
Diémé also criticized the framing of former Prime Minister Sonko’s decision to donate his four-million-franc CFA salary to victims. He emphasized that while Sonko’s gesture was notable, it should not overshadow the government’s broader responsibilities in addressing the issue.
The controversy over political funds in the Prime Minister’s office
The minister drew attention to the 1.77 billion-franc CFA political funds reportedly at the disposal of the Prime Minister’s office. “This sum could have been used to compensate a significant number of victims,” he noted, citing financial simulations to support his argument. He questioned why such resources had not been mobilized sooner to resolve the matter.
Constitutional reform: a case of parliamentary deceit?
Turning to the recent constitutional reform, Diémé condemned what he described as a “parliamentary deceit” that betrayed the spirit of President Faye’s call for national dialogue. “The President invited all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, yet some exploited this process to advance their own agendas,” he stated.
Macky Sall’s presence in Senegal: a non-issue
On the topic of former President Macky Sall’s freedom of movement within Senegal, Diémé defended the current administration’s stance. “Critics claim the President has changed his approach by allowing Sall to move freely under police protection, but this is a misreading of the situation,” he explained. “Sall is not facing any legal proceedings, and Senegalese law strictly regulates how former heads of state can be held accountable.”
The minister cautioned against unfounded accusations, reminding critics that only lawmakers can initiate high treason proceedings. “Accusing individuals without evidence and then presenting oneself as a hero is not only reckless but undermines democratic principles,” he warned. He concluded by stating that if Sall were to provide clarity on pending matters, a meeting with President Faye would be entirely appropriate within the bounds of republican values.
