Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has called for the closure of French military bases in the West African nation, asserting that their presence undermines national sovereignty.
Speaking to AFP on Thursday, Faye argued that sovereignty is incompatible with hosting foreign military installations. His remarks come as Senegal prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the 1944 Thiaroye massacre.
“Senegal is an independent and sovereign nation. Sovereignty does not allow military bases of foreign powers on its soil,” Faye stated from the presidential palace.
While calling for an end to the French military presence, Faye clarified that the move does not signify a break in relations with France. He pointed to strong economic ties, noting that China, Senegal’s largest trading partner, maintains no military footprint in the country.
Faye’s comments coincide with broader shifts in West Africa, where countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have expelled French forces and turned to alternative security partners such as Russia.
French sources revealed earlier this year that Paris is already reducing its military footprint in Africa. Troops in Senegal are expected to be scaled down from 350 to 100 as part of broader cuts across the continent.
The president also acknowledged a letter from French President Emmanuel Macron recognizing the 1944 Thiaroye massacre as a “massacre” and apologizing for being unable to attend the commemoration.
The Thiaroye massacre, in which French forces killed protesting Senegalese soldiers returning from World War II, has long strained Franco-Senegalese relations. While Macron’s acknowledgment marks progress, Faye hinted at seeking a formal apology and reparations, stating, “Recognition must lead to making amends.”
This development underscores Senegal’s push to redefine its foreign relations and assert greater autonomy on the global stage.