In a recent interview, Yankhoba Diémé, Senegal’s Minister of Communication, addressed the growing tensions between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. He dismissed Sonko’s repeated claims of victimization as a deliberate strategy to manipulate public opinion against the head of state.

« This narcissistic mindset and accumulated misconducts have reached a point where the victim is portrayed as the perpetrator, » Diémé stated. He emphasized that such tactics are designed to turn public sentiment against President Faye, despite his transparent governance.

Compensation delays: Minister clears President Faye

Addressing concerns over delayed compensation payments to former detainees, Diémé firmly rejected allegations blaming President Faye. « Claims that the president is responsible for these delays are entirely unfounded, » he asserted. « The president issued clear 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 criticized the framing of former Prime Minister Sonko’s salary donation to victims, arguing that it overshadows the state’s obligations in addressing their grievances.

Political funds controversy

Diémé highlighted the controversy surrounding the Prime Minister’s political funds, which amounted to 1.77 billion CFA francs. « It was only in the National Assembly that we learned about these funds, » he noted. « 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 reforms: A breach of trust

The minister criticized the political maneuvering surrounding the recent constitutional reforms, stating that it deviated from the spirit of dialogue President Faye had championed. « The president called for inclusive dialogue, but what followed was parliamentary trickery, » he remarked.

Macky Sall’s presence: Upholding the law

On the issue of former President Macky Sall’s freedom of movement in Senegal, Diémé defended President Faye’s actions. « Some argue that the president has changed his stance by allowing Sall to move freely under police protection, » he said. « However, the president is merely fulfilling his constitutional duties. Sall faces no legal accusations or proceedings, and Senegalese law strictly regulates any potential actions against former presidents. »

He cautioned against baseless accusations, emphasizing that only lawmakers can initiate high treason proceedings. « Accusing individuals without evidence and then presenting oneself as a hero is unacceptable, » he stressed.

In closing, Diémé suggested that if Macky Sall provides necessary clarifications on certain matters, there would be no obstacle to President Faye engaging with him in accordance with republican principles.