Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has sparked debate by questioning the continued presence of French military bases in the country, emphasizing national sovereignty and strategic autonomy. In a wide-ranging speech at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, alongside French politician Jean-Luc Mélenchon, Sonko addressed critical issues, including the CFA franc currency, oil and gas contracts, and LGBTQ+ rights, reflecting his push for greater independence from France, Senegal’s former colonial power.
Questioning Foreign Military Bases
With approximately 350 French troops stationed in Senegal, Sonko argued that their presence, decades after independence, undermines the nation’s control over its security. He highlighted that a significant portion of the Dakar region is occupied by foreign garrisons, questioning the justification of such bases despite defense agreements with other countries. “Our desire for autonomy is incompatible with foreign military presence,” Sonko stated, signaling a potential shift in Senegal’s security policy. This stance aligns with broader regional trends, as neighboring countries have also reevaluated foreign military engagements.
Strengthening Ties with Sahel Neighbors
Sonko expressed solidarity with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have expelled French forces and sought Russian support to combat jihadist insurgencies. These nations, governed by military juntas, have distanced themselves from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after its condemnation of their coups, forming their own Alliance of Sahel States. Sonko vowed to strengthen ties with these Sahel brothers, emphasizing regional unity despite their divergence from ECOWAS. This position underscores Senegal’s intent to forge independent regional alliances, prioritizing mutual support over external influence.
Economic and Social Policy Reforms
On economic fronts, Sonko reiterated plans to renegotiate oil and gas contracts as Senegal prepares to enter the production phase. He also advocated for reforming the CFA franc, a euro-pegged currency shared with seven West African countries, proposing a more flexible system tied to multiple currencies to enhance economic resilience and export competitiveness. Socially, Sonko called for Western nations to exercise restraint on issues like LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, asserting that Senegal would address such matters in line with its socio-cultural realities. He noted that homosexuality, while historically present, would be managed according to local values, rejecting external pressures to legalize it.
A Push for Sovereignty
Sonko’s remarks, delivered alongside Mélenchon, a vocal critic of French foreign policy, highlight a growing movement in Senegal to assert greater control over its political, economic, and cultural trajectory. By challenging the French military presence and advocating for regional solidarity and economic reforms, Sonko is positioning Senegal as a leader in redefining post-colonial relationships in West Africa.
