Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – In his first interview with the Senegalese media since assuming office, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye discussed the major political issues shaping the nation’s landscape. As he marked his first 100 days in power, the president offered candid insights into his administration’s actions and future plans.
In his introductory remarks, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye paid tribute to the Senegalese people, describing them as “a peaceful people.” “I give thanks to God. It’s an experience that I live with serenity,” said the Head of State in Wolof, referring to the “positive pressure” felt by his political family “the patriots” whose ambition is to address the challenges confronting citizens.
Addressing Perceived Duality at the Executive Level
One of the most pressing concerns discussed was the perceived duality at the top of the executive. President Faye addressed his relationship with Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, his political mentor. He responded to criticisms suggesting that Sonko’s influence might overshadow his presidency. “I encourage him not to eye the presidential chair but to look straight at it. I wish him to lead this country one day because I know him well,” Faye stated, expressing his ambition to eventually support Sonko’s presidential aspirations.
Intervention in the General Policy Declaration Debate
President Faye also shed light on his discreet efforts to resolve tensions in the National Assembly regarding Ousmane Sonko’s general policy declaration (DPG). He criticized deputies for attempting to bypass legal procedures to align with Sonko’s preference to avoid making his DPG in the Assembly. Faye revealed his behind-the-scenes interventions, which included inviting Assembly President Amadou Mame Diop to the palace and requesting Sonko to postpone his declaration until the Assembly’s internal regulations were updated.
Exposing Questionable Contracts and Overbilling
In his assessment of Senegal’s financial situation, President Faye highlighted the discovery of questionable contracts and unacceptable levels of overbilling. “We found contracts with unacceptable levels of over-invoicing. I asked that these contracts be blocked because Senegal’s interests were no longer assured,” he asserted. Additionally, he mentioned immediate measures taken to settle critical debts, such as those of the African Refining Company (SAR), to prevent power outages.
Clarification on Special and Political Funds
Addressing rumors about his predecessor Macky Sall siphoning political funds, President Faye admitted finding empty coffers upon taking office. He discussed the secretive nature of these funds, which amounted to billions of CFA francs annually, and his plan to establish a select committee to manage them transparently.
Commitment to Reducing Food Prices
President Faye reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the high cost of living, a major concern among Senegalese citizens. He emphasized ongoing efforts with unionists and the private sector to reduce food prices further. “Our commitment to making life easier for the Senegalese will never cease. We have reduced the prices of food, which the Senegalese still expect to see lower costs,” he promised.
As President Bassirou Diomaye Faye continues to navigate the complexities of leading Senegal, his first 100 days in office reflect a blend of addressing immediate challenges and laying the groundwork for long-term improvements in governance and economic stability.
