In the midst of Senegal’s deepening political crisis, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye delivered a speech brimming with significance. During a national tribute ceremony on June 4 honoring former President Abdoulaye Wade—who celebrated his 100th birthday on May 29—Faye addressed, albeit indirectly, the escalating feud between himself and his former Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko.

“No matter how intense a dispute may become, it should never justify tearing apart our shared nation,” declared the head of state. He emphasized that “democracy is not a prize to be seized and hoarded, but a flame passed from hand to hand that must never be allowed to fade.”

Faye removed Sonko from his position on May 22 following months of growing rifts between the once-aligned allies.

Two days after Sonko’s recent remarks, Faye arrived at the official ceremony at Dakar’s Grand Theatre to enthusiastic applause. His speech, punctuated by frequent ovations, included veiled references to the nation’s political turbulence and his split with Sonko.

“Today’s opponent is not an enemy”

During the tribute to Abdoulaye Wade—an iconic political figure who led Senegal from 2000 to 2012—President Faye paid homage to the late leader’s wisdom. “He taught us that even the fiercest quarrels should never destroy the nation we share,” Faye said. “He showed us that serving our youth is always more valuable than exploiting them.”

Echoing Sonko’s prior statements about a “cohabitation” scenario, Faye stressed that while disagreements may arise, they should never escalate into irreparable divisions. “An adversary today is not an enemy,” he asserted. “They are a fellow citizen with a different vision of the country—one with whom we must ultimately share the same home in peace, once the struggle has ended. Opposition does not require destruction.”

The president also praised Wade’s unwavering belief in Senegal’s future, even when faced with betrayal or bitterness. “He never despaired of Senegal, nor of a companion lost to resentment and hatred,” Faye reflected.