The Minister of Communications, Yankhoba Diémé, has strongly criticized former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s recurring claims of being victimized, arguing that this narrative unfairly targets President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

In a candid interview, Minister Diémé dismissed Sonko’s accusations as a deliberate attempt to manipulate public perception by portraying himself as the wronged party while casting the president in a negative light. “This pattern of narcissism and repeated misconduct ultimately reverses the roles, turning the victim into the oppressor,” he declared.

Compensation for former detainees: clearing the president’s name

Addressing the delayed payments to former detainees, Diémé categorically refuted insinuations that President Faye was responsible for the delays. “The president issued clear directives during a Council of Ministers meeting, instructing both the Prime Minister and the Minister in charge of Family Affairs to expedite the process,” he stated.

He also challenged the narrative surrounding former Prime Minister Sonko’s reported donation of his four-million-franc CFA salary to victims, emphasizing that the state’s financial obligations in this matter extend beyond individual gestures.

Political funds controversy: where did the money go?

The minister raised eyebrows over revelations about the Prime Minister’s access to 1.77 billion francs CFA in political funds. “Had these funds been allocated appropriately, thousands of victims could have received compensation without delay,” he argued, citing financial simulations to underscore his point.

Constitutional reform: a betrayal of dialogue

Criticizing recent constitutional amendments, Diémé accused certain political figures of undermining the president’s call for inclusive dialogue. “The president urged all stakeholders to engage in constructive discussions, yet some have resorted to parliamentary maneuvers that distort the spirit of collaboration,” he asserted.

Macky Sall’s presence in Senegal: adhering to legal principles

When questioned about former President Macky Sall’s freedom of movement in Senegal, Diémé defended President Faye’s approach. “Detractors claim the president has changed course by allowing Macky Sall to move freely under state protection. In reality, the president is merely upholding the law. The former president faces no legal proceedings, nor has he been accused of any wrongdoing,” he explained.

The minister stressed that Senegal’s legal framework strictly governs any potential action against a former president, noting that only lawmakers can initiate high treason proceedings. “We must remind our youth that unfounded accusations do not make one a hero,” he added.

In closing, Diémé suggested that if Macky Sall provides clarity on certain issues, nothing would prevent President Faye from engaging with him in a manner consistent with republican values.