The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, has instigated discussions about the presence of French military bases in Senegal and the possibility of their closure. The dialogue not only pertains to military matters, but also addresses broader cultural and societal issues such as LGBTQ rights and monogamy.
While addressing the students at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Sonko expressed his qualms regarding France’s existing military involvement in African states, its potential implications on national sovereignty, and the strategic independence of these nations.
Sonko quoted, “More than 60 years after our independence… we must question the reasons why the French army for example still benefits from several military bases in our country and the impact of this presence on our national sovereignty and our strategic autonomy.” He emphasized that the presence of French military personnel is incongruous with Senegal’s principles of independence and national sovereignty.
Beyond military matters, Sonko disapproved of the efforts made by France and other Western nations to promote values such as LGBTQ rights and monogamy, which he argues are inconsistent with the values held by Senegal and other African nations.
At this time, there are 350 French soldiers based in Senegal, with 260 of those serving permanently. These troops, stationed in the country since 2011, primarily focus on training soldiers from neighboring countries. The French influence is predominantly concentrated in Dakar, the capital city of Senegal, extending to other regional countries like Ivory Coast, Gabon, and Chad.
In 2010, Senegal reclaimed oversight of several military bases that were formerly under the control of its ex-colonial ruler. Today’s discussions point to a continued effort in reshuffling military balance and asserting national sovereignty.
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