President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has called for the removal of French military bases, citing Senegal’s sovereignty.
“Senegal is a sovereign nation, and sovereignty is incompatible with foreign military bases,” Faye said on Thursday.
His remarks coincide with Senegal’s commemoration of the 1944 Thiaroye massacre, where French forces killed protesting Senegalese soldiers.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently acknowledged the massacre, calling it a “massacre” and expressing regret for missing the event.
While Faye emphasized strong ties with France, he noted Senegal’s partnerships with nations like China, which have no military presence.
Amid similar moves by other West African nations, France is already reducing its military footprint in Senegal from 350 troops to 100.
Faye hinted at seeking reparations, stating, “Recognition must lead to making amends.”
