In a candid interview, Yankhoba Diémé, Senegal’s Minister of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, addressed the escalating tensions between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. The minister forcefully rejected what he described as a deliberate strategy of victimization being orchestrated by Sonko, warning that such tactics risk distorting public perception of the current administration.
« This pattern of narcissistic behavior, coupled with a series of questionable actions, is designed to invert the roles of victim and perpetrator in the eyes of the public, » Diémé asserted. He emphasized that Sonko’s approach aims to undermine the legitimacy of President Faye by portraying him as the aggressor.
Indemnification delays: minister clears president of responsibility
Addressing concerns over the delayed payments to former detainees, Minister Diémé categorically dismissed allegations blaming President Faye for the holdup.
« Claims that the president is responsible for the failure to disburse compensations are entirely unfounded, » he stated. « The president issued explicit directives during a Council of Ministers meeting, instructing the Prime Minister and the Minister in charge of Family Affairs to expedite the process. »
He also challenged the framing of former Prime Minister Sonko’s reported salary donation, arguing that the gesture should not obscure the state’s broader obligations in compensating victims. « While it’s commendable that Sonko redirected his four-million-franc CFA salary, the narrative cannot overshadow the state’s duty to address these claims systematically, » Diémé noted.
Political funds controversy: primature’s financial reserves under scrutiny
The minister turned his attention to the undisclosed political funds held by the Prime Minister’s office, which came to light during a parliamentary session. « It was only in the National Assembly that we learned the Prime Minister had access to 1.77 billion francs CFA in political funds, » he revealed. « With such resources at hand, a substantial number of victims could have already received compensation. »
Diémé backed his argument with financial simulations, illustrating how these funds could have been allocated more effectively to address immediate needs.
Constitutional reform: accused of parliamentary trickery
On the topic of Senegal’s recent constitutional amendments, the minister condemned what he termed a breach of parliamentary ethics. « The president called for inclusive dialogue, but the process was hijacked by dishonest political maneuvering, » he declared. « This was nothing short of parliamentary trickery. »
Macky Sall’s presence: defending presidential prerogatives
When questioned about former President Macky Sall’s continued presence in Senegal, Diémé defended President Faye’s decision to allow him freedom of movement under state protection. « The president is acting entirely within his constitutional mandate, » he explained. « Macky Sall is not subject to any legal proceedings or accusations. »
The minister reminded critics that Senegalese law strictly regulates any potential legal action against former heads of state. « Only members of parliament can initiate proceedings for high treason, » he pointed out. « Accusations must be evidence-based, not driven by political agitation. »
Concluding his remarks, Diémé suggested that if Macky Sall were to provide clarifications on outstanding issues, there would be no impediment to a respectful and constitutionally appropriate exchange with President Faye.