In the heart of Dakar, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye delivered a powerful message during a national tribute to former President Abdoulaye Wade, who celebrated his 100th birthday on May 29. Standing before a packed Grand Théâtre, Faye emphasized the fragility of Senegal’s democracy while addressing the deepening rift between his government and former ally Ousmane Sonko.
The president’s words carried extra weight against the backdrop of months-long political strife that culminated in Sonko’s removal as Prime Minister on May 22. Faye framed the crisis not as a personal battle but as a test of national unity, declaring that democracy is not a prize to seize and hoard, but a flame passed from one generation to the next.
a plea for unity in divided times
With Senegal’s political landscape increasingly fractured, Faye’s speech served as both a warning and an appeal. “A dispute, no matter how intense, must never justify tearing apart the nation we share,” he stated, borrowing from the wisdom of Abdoulaye Wade. The president went further, urging citizens to reject divisiveness: “Serving our youth is always more valuable than exploiting their frustrations.”
His remarks drew spontaneous applause from the audience, particularly when he alluded to the ongoing tensions with Sonko—now President of the National Assembly—who had publicly criticized Faye just days earlier. Sonko described the situation as a “cohabitation”, urging the president to “come down from his pedestal and engage in dialogue.”
democracy as a shared responsibility
Faye’s address also paid homage to Wade’s legacy, highlighting the former president’s ability to navigate political conflicts without sacrificing national cohesion. “An opponent today is not an enemy forever,” Faye reminded the crowd. “They are a fellow citizen who sees the country differently—and with whom we must one day share peace under the same Senegalese roof.”
The president concluded by praising Wade’s unwavering belief in the nation’s potential, even in the face of discord. “He never despaired of Senegal, nor of a companion lost in bitterness or hatred,” Faye reflected, reinforcing his vision of a democracy rooted in resilience and mutual respect.
