Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) Alioune Tine, president of the Afrikajom Centre, has called upon President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to ensure the completion of agreements signed with Diakaye. These agreements are critical for providing civil status documents and identity papers to fighters and their families, a significant step towards lasting peace in the Casamance region.

“We must ensure follow-up and finalize the application of the agreements signed in Diakaye, allowing combatants and their families to have civil status documents and identity papers,” Tine urged. “President Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Sonko, your names must be associated with definitive peace in Casamance. Behind you, you have the support of the people and the people of Casamance.”

The call from Tine comes in the wake of a significant disarmament event in May 2023, when 255 fighters of the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC) were demobilized in Diakaye. Under the leadership of Fatoma Coly, these fighters surrendered their weapons, which were subsequently destroyed by fire. This event was a landmark moment in the protracted Casamance conflict, which has been ongoing since 1982.

Alioune Tine highlighted the importance of the recent disarmament and the need for continuous efforts towards peace. “The destruction of weapons in Diakaye constitutes one of the most important steps towards definitive peace in Casamance,” Tine stated. “The populations of green Casamance deeply aspire to definitive peace, an essential condition for full sustainable development in Casamance.”

The Senegalese government, committed to aiding the reintegration of former fighters and their families, has emphasized the importance of social integration for lasting peace. Tine praised former President Macky Sall for his contributions to the peace process, noting that while progress has been made, ongoing mobilization from local populations and leaders is crucial

Tine acknowledged the tireless efforts of various individuals and groups in the Casamance peace process. He commended the contributions of Ndeye Marie Thiam and other women at the forefront, as well as civil society leaders like Abdou Ndukur Kacc Ndao and journalist Pape Sané, who maintain continuous contact with all peace actors.

“Today the conditions for moving towards definitive peace have never been more favorable,” Tine asserted. He emphasized the unique opportunity presented by the leadership of Ousmane Sonko, former mayor of Ziguinchor, and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. “The Casamance region has never had a political leader of national and international prestige and dimension like Ousmane Sonko. Prime Minister Sonko’s friend and companion, President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, is at the head of state. It is Agen and Jabon, who sealed a pact for peace, stability, and prosperity of the country, who are at the top of the state and have all the authority and legitimacy to move quickly and well towards peace definitive in Casamance.”

The call for action by Alioune Tine underscores the critical juncture at which the Casamance peace process stands. With strong leadership and the support of the local and international community, the dream of lasting peace in Casamance appears within reach. The coming months will be pivotal as President Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Sonko work to finalize the agreements and secure a peaceful future for all inhabitants of the region.