Senegal’s Minister of Communication, Yankhoba Diémé, has strongly rebutted claims made by former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, accusing him of orchestrating a campaign of manufactured victimhood to undermine President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

In a candid interview, Diémé dismissed Sonko’s repeated assertions of persecution as a deliberate ploy to sway public opinion against the head of state. He asserted, “This narcissistic behavior and accumulated deceit ultimately transforms the perpetrator into the victim in the eyes of observers.”

compensation delays: minister clears president

Addressing the delayed payments to former detainees, Diémé firmly refuted allegations blaming President Faye for the holdup. He clarified, “Claims that the president is responsible for the payment delays are entirely baseless. During a cabinet meeting, he issued explicit directives to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Family Affairs to expedite the process.”

The minister also questioned the narrative surrounding Ousmane Sonko’s alleged donation of his four-million-CFA salary to victims. He argued that such a gesture should not overshadow the state’s obligations in addressing their needs.

political funds controversy

Diémé raised concerns about the substantial political funds available to the Prime Minister’s office, totaling 1.77 billion CFA francs. He contended, “I first learned of these funds from the National Assembly. With such resources, compensating a significant number of victims would have been feasible.” He backed his argument with financial simulations to underscore the point.

constitutional revision: a breach of trust

Criticizing the recent constitutional amendments, Diémé described the process as a betrayal of the president’s call for inclusive dialogue. He stated, “The president urged all stakeholders to engage in dialogue, yet the outcome was a clear breach of parliamentary trust.”

Macky Sall’s return: adherence to legal norms

Responding to criticism over former President Macky Sall’s freedom of movement in Senegal, Diémé defended President Faye’s actions. He explained, “Some claim the president has compromised by allowing Macky Sall’s unrestricted movement under state protection. However, the president is merely fulfilling his constitutional role.”

He emphasized that Senegalese law strictly regulates any legal action against former presidents, noting, “Legal proceedings against an ex-president can only be initiated by deputies under high treason charges. Accusing without evidence and then presenting oneself as a hero is not acceptable.”

Diémé concluded by stating that if Macky Sall provides necessary clarifications on outstanding issues, there would be no obstacle to President Faye engaging with him in accordance with republican principles.