Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – Keur Massar Sud Mayor, Mohamed Bilal Diatta of Pastef, has vehemently denied accusations of drug trafficking and personal misconduct, dismissing them as a politically motivated smear campaign orchestrated by opponents within and outside his Pastef party.
The controversy erupted after videos and audio recordings implicating the mayor went viral on social media. In response, Diatta held a press briefing on Sunday, April 6, to present his version of events and announce legal action against his accusers.
Allegations of Personal Misconduct
The scandal began with a video featuring an individual who identified himself as a member of the ruling Alliance for the Republic (APR) and the group “Son of Macky.” The man accused Diatta of impregnating the sister of a young woman who allegedly left Pastef over the issue. According to the claims, Diatta attempted to silence the matter by paying 300,000 FCFA to the accuser and transferring 400,000 FCFA to the alleged victim.
A second video reinforced these claims, alleging that the mayor had acknowledged paternity of the unborn child and promised to cover pregnancy-related costs, even committing to marriage after childbirth.
Diatta Denounces a Political Plot
Dismissing the allegations entirely, Mayor Diatta revealed that he had filed a complaint with the Cybercrime Division following the circulation of the first video. He described the accusations as a “conspiracy” driven by political adversaries, including elements within his own party.
“This is an orchestrated campaign to tarnish my image and discredit Pastef by targeting its officials,” he stated.
Diatta further claimed that his Facebook account had been hacked to spread falsehoods, including rumors of an alleged trip to Belgium aimed at defrauding Senegalese nationals.
Drug Trafficking Allegations Resurface
Beyond the personal scandal, the mayor also addressed long-standing allegations of drug trafficking, which have circulated since his election. He confirmed that he had lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigations Division (DIC) and noted that no evidence had ever been presented against him.
Additionally, an independent investigation led by a retired gendarme reportedly found no wrongdoing on his part.
Feeling betrayed by internal party figures, Diatta urged Pastef’s top leadership, including President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, to intervene and restore order within the party.
“I ask the highest authorities of Pastef to shed light on this case,” he pleaded, criticizing the ease with which certain party officials had circulated the videos without verification.
Diatta concluded by reaffirming his integrity and religious values, condemning what he called an “orchestrated cabal” designed to push him out of the political arena.
As the controversy unfolds, the case has ignited debate within Pastef and the broader Senegalese political landscape, raising questions about internal divisions and the use of social media in political battles.
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