The coalition Diomaye Président has strongly reacted to recent statements made by Ousmane Sonko, delivered at Mbacké during the inauguration of Pastef’s headquarters. The coalition’s representatives have denounced the comments they deem insulting towards the head of state and believe they represent a break with the spirit of responsibility expected from an institutional leader.
For Bassirou Dieng, a member of the coalition, such statements are incompatible with the principles of a State of Law. « In a State of Law, a democracy that respects itself or a Republic, it’s not acceptable for a President of the National Assembly to make certain remarks injurious towards the head of state », he said during an interview on iRadio.
According to him, Sonko’s statements have sparked numerous reactions on social media and in the press. « Since his statement yesterday at Mbacké, everyone is upset somewhere on social media and in the press. No one agrees with his remarks. Everyone is denouncing Ousmane Sonko’s scandalous statements », he said, calling the latter to « exercise restraint ».
Bassirou Dieng also warns that the coalition will now react more firmly to what it considers as repeated attacks against institutions. « The coalition Diomaye Président will take a stand. It will no longer be acceptable to turn a blind eye to certain injurious remarks made by Ousmane Sonko towards his Excellency, the President of the Republic, as well as certain authorities that embody the State », he said.
This reaction comes after the media outing of Ousmane Sonko at Mbacké, where his statements have fueled the political debate and sparked intense reactions among the majority presidential camp.
