In a recent Seneweb interview, Senegal’s Minister Yankhoba Diémé addressed the rising tensions between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. He rejected Sonko’s accusations of “manifest victimization,” arguing that such tactics aim to manipulate public opinion against the head of state.

Sonko’s alleged victimization strategy

According to Minister Diémé, Ousmane Sonko is employing a deliberate strategy to portray himself as a victim, despite his previous role in government. “This narcissistic approach and accumulated misdeeds ultimately seek to turn the victim into the aggressor,” he stated. The minister emphasized that Sonko’s actions are designed to shift blame onto President Faye.

Delayed compensation for former detainees

On the issue of compensation for former detainees, Diémé dismissed claims implicating President Faye in the delays. “It has been falsely suggested that the president is responsible for the payment delays. That is incorrect. The president issued clear instructions to the Prime Minister and the Family Affairs Minister during a cabinet meeting,” he clarified.

The minister also questioned the narrative surrounding Ousmane Sonko’s salary donation. While Sonko announced he would donate four million CFA francs to victims, Diémé argued that this gesture should not overshadow the state’s broader responsibilities in addressing compensation.

Political funds controversy

Diémé highlighted the controversy over political funds held by the Prime Minister’s office, revealing that 1.77 billion CFA francs were reportedly available. “I learned in the National Assembly that the Prime Minister had access to these funds. With such resources, compensating a significant number of victims would have been feasible,” he asserted.

Constitutional reform and parliamentary maneuvering

Addressing the recent constitutional reform, the minister criticized what he described as a “parliamentary swindle.” He contended that while President Faye had called for inclusive dialogue, certain political actors distorted the process. “The president urged national consensus, but there was a clear manipulation of parliamentary procedures,” he said.

Macky Sall’s presence in Senegal

When questioned about former President Macky Sall’s freedom of movement in Senegal, Diémé defended President Faye’s stance. “Critics claim the president has changed his approach by allowing Macky Sall to move freely under police and gendarmerie protection. However, the president is acting within his constitutional role. Macky Sall faces no legal accusations or charges,” he explained.

The minister reiterated that Senegalese law strictly governs any potential legal proceedings against former heads of state. “We must remind those agitating for action that only lawmakers can initiate high treason proceedings. Accusations without evidence are baseless and do not make one a hero,” he stated.

In closing, Diémé suggested that if Macky Sall provides necessary clarifications on unresolved matters, President Faye would have no objection to engaging with him in accordance with republican principles.