Statement By Dr. Yacine Dieng- Vice Coordinator Pastef Gambia
Dear Dr. Ismaila Ceesay,
Thank you for your recent message. While it did not explicitly name any particular nation, the sentiments expressed regarding countries that regret governmental changes, coupled with your position, lead me to believe you may be implicitly referring to Senegal’s recent democratic transition. I welcome the opportunity to clarify our perspective.
Senegal’s recent political evolution was not merely a change, but a profound and widely celebrated democratic revolution. The resounding victory of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, securing over 54% of the vote, reflects the unequivocal will of the Senegalese people. This outcome has been lauded internationally as a triumph of democracy and an inspiring model for Pan-Africanism. Far from regretting this decision, citizens across Senegal and its diaspora are demonstrably proud of their vote, confident in the ethical leadership, transparency, and unwavering commitment of their new government to justice and development.
It is easy to misinterpret the landscape of public opinion through selective social media lenses. What might appear as widespread regret is often the amplified voice of a frustrated minority, particularly those yet to reconcile with a significant electoral defeat. True public sentiment, however, is reflected in the continued widespread support and the collective determination to forge a new path for our nation.
You spoke of stable governments. It is crucial to examine the true nature of the stability we inherited. The previous administration, which you might characterize as stable, left behind a legacy that included serious allegations of human rights abuses, with reports of over 80 lives lost in political unrest, the imprisonment of more than 2,000 individuals including elected officials, and systematic attempts to prevent opposition figures from participating in elections. This is hardly the hallmark of genuine stability or responsible governance.
Furthermore, the economic situation inherited by the new government demands transparent communication. We are currently grappling with a substantial hidden debt, estimated by the Court of Auditors at approximately $7 billion. This, coupled with an overall public debt that reached 119% of GDP, led the IMF to characterize the situation as “misreporting” of economic data, resulting in the suspension of a $1.8 billion aid program and increased difficulty in accessing international financial markets. President Diomaye Faye and his government have chosen to begin their mandate with honesty, openly addressing these inherited challenges rather than perpetuating false narratives of economic health. This commitment to truth resonates deeply with the Senegalese people.
Mr. Minister, as a prominent figure in a neighboring nation, your public statements carry significant weight, particularly concerning the delicate and vital relationship between Senegal and The Gambia. While Gambia is indeed a second home to many Senegalese, prudence, principle, and respect for sovereign internal affairs dictate a cautious approach from officials of brotherly nations. You would seldom, if ever, hear a Senegalese minister publicly critique the government of President Adama Barrow. Senegal’s commitment to Gambia’s stability is undeniable, evidenced by our continued military presence, which reinforces the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two countries. To imply criticism of Senegal’s democratic choices, especially given the shared history and interdependence, risks inadvertently straining these crucial ties and potentially making President Barrow’s government uncomfortable. Such commentary, so soon after a legitimate transition, strikes many as both clumsy and ethically questionable for a minister of the republic.
We, the people of Senegal, stand as the human shield of this new political project, resolute in our convictions and unwavering in our support for President Faye and Prime Minister Sonko. We have no regrets about affirming Senegal’s unique path towards greater transparency, justice, and sustainable development. We pray for their success in this noble mission.
Sincerely,
Dr Yacine Dieng
Vice coordinator of Pastef Gambia
