The former Prime Minister of Senegal, Amadou Ba, has called for an intensified political dialogue and a renewed focus on economic credibility following a key meeting with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye as part of the ongoing national dialogue initiative.
During his audience at the Presidential Palace, where former heads of government were consulted by the Head of State, Amadou Ba emphasized the critical importance of broad-based consultations to address the nation’s most pressing challenges. He described the initiative as a « vital step » for Senegal, urging deeper exchanges to forge stronger national agreements.
The call for extended dialogue on electoral reforms
In discussions with the President, Amadou Ba highlighted several pivotal issues, including political stability, proposed institutional reforms, and the economic and security challenges facing Senegal. He specifically underscored the need for more inclusive talks on electoral reforms, proposing an additional two-week extension to ensure more robust consensus-building.
Amadou Ba stressed that Senegal cannot afford to overlook the urgency of dialogue and unity. « The country needs consensus, and it needs dialogue, » he stated, clarifying that his stance was not driven by partisan interests but by a commitment to the nation’s collective welfare.
Economic concerns take center stage
The former Finance Minister expressed deep concerns over the current economic climate and its impact on ordinary citizens. He also addressed Senegal’s relationship with international financial partners, particularly the International Monetary Fund, recalling that during his tenure, the country went six years without receiving any funds from the institution.
« I reminded the President that, as Finance Minister, I went six years without a single franc from the IMF. Senegal itself went twelve years without a funding program, » he revealed. While acknowledging that this did not compromise the country’s financial credibility, he noted that today’s economic realities demand compromise to secure essential financing for development and investment.
He further warned that successive credit rating downgrades were inflating borrowing costs and limiting the government’s financial flexibility. Additionally, he emphasized the need for a comprehensive dialogue on security challenges amid shifting regional dynamics, calling for strengthened support to defense and security forces.
Balancing opposition and national interest
Ending the meeting on a conciliatory note, Amadou Ba reaffirmed his position as an opposition figure while advocating for a measured approach to national issues. « I remain in the opposition, and I will stay there. But some questions rise above political divides. We must work calmly for the good of the country, » he concluded.
