In a frank interview, Minister Yankhoba Diémé has sharply criticized the narrative of victimhood promoted by former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, while firmly backing President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s leadership amid escalating political tensions.

Diémé dismissed Sonko’s repeated claims of persecution as a deliberate strategy to manipulate public perception. “This pattern of narcissistic behavior and accumulated misdeeds ultimately aims to cast the victim as the aggressor,” he asserted. He warned that such tactics are designed to turn citizens against the elected president, undermining democratic stability.

Compensation delays for former detainees: president exonerated

Addressing delays in compensating former detainees, Diémé categorically rejected allegations blaming President Faye for the holdups. “Claims that the president is responsible for unpaid compensations are entirely unfounded,” he stated. “Clear instructions were issued during a cabinet meeting, directing the Prime Minister and the Minister in charge of Family Affairs to process these payments without delay.”

He also questioned the timing and motives behind Sonko’s announcement of donating four million CFA francs of his salary to victims. “While this gesture deserves recognition, it cannot overshadow the state’s legal and financial obligations to those affected,” he emphasized.

Prime minister’s discretionary funds under scrutiny

Highlighting a critical oversight, Diémé revealed that the Prime Minister’s office held discretionary funds totaling 1.77 billion CFA francs. “Parliamentary records confirm this amount. With such resources at hand, compensating a significant number of victims would have been feasible,” he argued, presenting financial simulations to substantiate his point.

Constitutional reform: a betrayal of national dialogue

Commenting on the recent constitutional amendments, Diémé condemned what he described as a “parliamentary swindle.” He alleged that political actors had distorted the spirit of the inclusive dialogue initiated by the president, turning a collaborative process into a contentious maneuver.

Macky Sall’s presence in Senegal: president acts within mandate

On the controversy surrounding former President Macky Sall’s freedom of movement in Senegal, Diémé defended President Faye’s approach. “Critics argue that the president has compromised his stance by allowing Sall to move freely under police protection. Yet, the president is merely fulfilling his constitutional duties. No judicial proceedings or accusations have been brought against Sall,” he clarified.

He cautioned against premature accusations, stressing that only deputies hold the authority to initiate high treason proceedings. “It is irresponsible to level baseless allegations and then pose as champions of justice,” he remarked.

Diémé concluded by emphasizing that if Macky Sall provides clarity on pending issues, there is no impediment to a respectful and republican exchange with the current president.