Senegal’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has voiced strong criticism of the French military presence in his country, as well as efforts by Western nations to promote values that he claims are inconsistent with Senegalese culture.
Speaking at an event in Dakar alongside French far-left politician Jean-Luc Mélenchon, Sonko emphasized Senegal’s desire for self-determination, which he argued is incompatible with the continued presence of foreign military bases. “I want to reiterate Senegal’s desire for self-determination, which is incompatible with the long-term presence of foreign military bases in Senegal,” Sonko stated.
Sonko’s remarks come after a significant political victory in March, when his party’s candidate, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, won the presidential election. Sonko has been a vocal critic of French interference, reflecting a growing sentiment in the region. Neighboring countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have already expelled French troops, turning instead to Russia for military support.
Currently, France maintains approximately 350 troops in Senegal. While Sonko called for a reevaluation of their presence, he clarified that this does not imply a withdrawal from existing defense treaties. His comments highlight a broader regional trend of questioning French influence in West Africa.
In his speech, Sonko also addressed cultural issues, criticizing Western efforts to promote LGBTQ rights, which he said clash with Senegalese traditions.
Sonko’s comments are expected to draw considerable attention from Western allies concerned about the future of their relationships with Senegal and the broader region. His party has also called for reforms within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), criticizing the bloc for allowing divisions to grow among its members.
“We will not abandon our brothers in the Sahel and will do everything necessary to strengthen our ties,” Sonko declared, reaffirming his commitment to regional solidarity amid the shifting geopolitical landscape.
