In the midst of Senegal’s deepening political crisis, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye delivered a powerful message during a national tribute to former President Abdoulaye Wade on June 4. Wade, who celebrated his 100th birthday on May 29, remains a towering political figure in West Africa.

Addressing the nation, Faye emphasized the importance of unity, stating, “A dispute, no matter how intense, does not justify tearing apart the country we share.” He underscored that democracy is not a spoil to be seized and hoarded, but rather a flame passed from hand to hand that must never be allowed to flicker out.

The president’s remarks came just days after he dismissed his former ally and Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, on May 22. Their once-close partnership had deteriorated into a bitter public feud, marking a dramatic shift in Senegal’s political landscape.

“Today’s opponent is not tomorrow’s enemy”

During the tribute, Faye directly quoted Wade, saying, “You taught us that a quarrel, however heated, should never justify rending the fabric of our shared nation (…), and that serving our youth will always be worth more than exploiting them.”

Faye’s speech resonated strongly with the audience at Dakar’s Grand Theatre, where he was greeted with enthusiastic applause. The crowd’s reaction highlighted the public’s keen interest in his vision for Senegal’s political future, particularly in light of the growing rift with Sonko.

He continued, “Abdoulaye Wade showed us that today’s opponent is not tomorrow’s enemy. They are a fellow citizen with a different perspective, with whom we must learn to coexist peacefully once the battle is over. We can oppose without tearing each other apart.”

Faye concluded by praising Wade’s unwavering faith in Senegal, even in the face of personal betrayal or political adversity, saying, “He never despaired of Senegal, nor of a companion lost in bitterness and hatred.”