Senegal president says France admits 1944 'massacre,' questions need for military bases: Video
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has revealed that French President Emmanuel Macron has formally acknowledged a 1944 massacre carried out by colonial forces at Thiaroye, Senegal.
Faye disclosed the acknowledgment during an interview with AFP, noting that Macron admitted to French culpability for the atrocity, which saw French troops fire on Senegalese soldiers who had returned home after serving in World War II.
The soldiers, protesting delayed pay and poor treatment, were attacked at the Thiaroye camp near Dakar. Official records state at least 35 were killed, but some historians suggest the actual death toll could be far higher.
While praising Macron's admission, Faye called for a reassessment of Senegal’s relationship with France, specifically questioning the continued presence of French military bases in the country.
"As we approach the 65th anniversary of our independence, the French authorities must consider moving towards a partnership free of military presence yet rich, fruitful, and privileged," he said.
The president emphasised that Senegal seeks partnerships rooted in mutual respect and sovereignty. “Our desire to see the absence of military forces from any country should not be misunderstood as a severance of ties with France,” Faye clarified, adding that Senegal remains open to global partnerships, including with nations such as Russia.
