Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s recent statements against the Senegalese press have sparked a wave of condemnation from civil society, media professionals, and former allies. On Sunday, during a political conference, Sonko issued serious threats to journalists, warning of severe consequences if they continued to publish what he deemed “fake” stories about him.

In a bold display of defiance, Sonko challenged journalists by saying, “If they are brave enough, let them write what they wrote on me.” This remark has been widely criticized for its aggressive tone and perceived attempt to intimidate the press.

Adama Gaye, a journalist-consultant and former defender of Sonko, compared the Prime Minister’s behavior to the authoritarian tactics seen in historical dictatorships in Europe and Latin America. Gaye highlighted Sonko’s apparent arrogance and his blunt expression of authority, which he believes undermines the legitimate leadership of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Gaye stated, “It was the arrogant Ousmane Sonko who was speaking there; there is arrogance in what he did yesterday.”

Further criticism came from Birahim Seck, the coordinator of the Civil Forum, an umbrella body of Senegalese civil society. Seck condemned Sonko’s threats, emphasizing the Prime Minister’s responsibility to support and strengthen the press rather than intimidate it. “PM Ousmane Sonko, your role is to provide lasting solutions to strengthen the press and consolidate it. It must not be or feel threatened,” Seck wrote on X (formerly Twitter). He reminded Sonko of his new role as a government leader, stating, “You are no longer in opposition but in the position of providing reassuring and democratic answers.”

The Union of Information and Communication Professionals of Senegal (Synpics) also denounced Sonko’s comments. Maguette Ndong, the union’s communications officer, expressed disappointment over the threats directed at journalists. Ndong acknowledged that while there are problematic individuals in every profession, this does not justify threats against journalists as a whole. He reminded Sonko that Pastef leaders had previously supported press freedom when they were in opposition.

Bougane Guèye Dani, president of Geum sa Bopp and owner of SenTv, also criticized Sonko’s threats. Guèye emphasized that Sonko’s focus should be on delivering concrete actions and fulfilling promises rather than attacking the press. “Ousmane Sonko must understand that communication for conquest is based on promises, but the exercise of power requires rapid and concrete actions. As for your threats towards journalists, it’s pitiful. This press rescued you from the clutches of Macky Sall in March 2021. Today, do you want to liquidate it? You’re wasting your breath,” Guèye stated.

As the controversy continues, it remains to be seen how Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko will address the growing dissent and criticism from various sectors of Senegalese society. The incident underscores the ongoing struggle for press freedom and the challenges faced by media professionals in Senegal.