Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko strongly criticized the French government during a press conference held at a hotel in Dakar on May 15, 2024. He accused the Macron administration of inciting persecution against his camp under former President Macky Sall. Sonko, a proponent of sovereignism and social pan-Africanism, delivered a speech at the University of Dakar, denouncing Western actions in Africa and calling for cooperation based on mutual respect and recognition of each nation’s sovereignty.
In his speech, Sonko accused Macron of encouraging repression and persecution against his political supporters, leading to dozens of deaths and hundreds of arrests during his confrontation with the Sall government from 2021 to 2024. Despite his imprisonment and inability to participate in the 2024 presidential election, Sonko’s second-in-command, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, won the election decisively.
Sonko also criticized neocolonialism in relations between the West and Africa, pointing out discrepancies between Macron’s promises of supporting African democracy and the reality in Senegal. He emphasized the need for a shift towards cooperation based on African sovereignty and criticized European governments’ complicity in the repression in Senegal.
Furthermore, Sonko addressed the issue of French military presence in Senegal, questioning the impact on national sovereignty and strategic autonomy. While expressing willingness to collaborate with all governments, including France, he reiterated the importance of ensuring Senegal’s independence and sovereignty, particularly in defense and monetary matters.
Additionally, Sonko warned against Western activism promoting homosexuality, stating that attempts to impose foreign values on African countries could lead to tensions. He stressed the need to respect cultural specificities and avoid imposing conflicting values, citing the potential for increased anti-Western sentiment if such pressures continue.
In conclusion, Sonko highlighted the need for mutual respect and understanding between cultures and civilizations, particularly regarding issues such as homosexuality and religious dress codes. He called for dialogue and cooperation based on shared values and respect for diversity, while underlining the importance of upholding national sovereignty and cultural identities in the face of external pressures.
