Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, used Martyrs’ Day—a commemoration of victims of political violence from 2021 to 2024—to call for internal party cohesion and judicial reform. In his speech he appealed for unity within both the party and the government, framing internal disagreements as a sign of vitality rather than a threat. Acknowledging rumors of tension, Sonko addressed the disputes with the Head of State directly, emphasizing the importance of consultation and dialogue. He urged those who share the same goals to work together and asked his supporters to exercise restraint, warning that verbal excesses would only divide rather than improve communication.
Sonko praised President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s steadfastness and determination, noting that the president’s leadership had sometimes faced criticism during difficult times. He reminded supporters that current leaders, like the victims themselves, have endured past adversity and must remain level‑headed in the face of disappointment. Addressing the frustration of victims’ families, Sonko reaffirmed his party’s commitment to seeking justice through ethical means. While acknowledging that the party could pursue revenge, he insisted on pursuing justice according to the rule of law and warned against exploiting public anger for political gain, which could undermine the movement’s cohesion.
Identifying the justice system as a primary source of delays and frustration, Sonko called for urgent reform, including the replacement of some magistrates, to enable authorities to act swiftly and fairly. He stressed that justice requires methodical investigations and cautioned against unrealistic expectations of instant judicial decisions. Concluding his remarks, Sonko urged patience and support, positioning judicial reform as essential for the country’s stability and for restoring citizens’ trust. He also announced his intention to run in future elections, including the 2029 presidential race, and signaled the imminent resumption of his political campaigns. The speech aimed to reassure victims’ families, promote party unity, and underscore the need for judicial reform so that the martyrs’ sacrifice is not in vain.
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