Dakar — President Bassirou Diomaye Faye delivered a poignant message during a national tribute to former President Abdoulaye Wade on Thursday, June 4, as political divisions within the country deepen. His remarks came just days after a dramatic political rift with his former ally, Ousmane Sonko.

In a speech that resonated deeply across the nation, Faye emphasized that “democracy is not a spoil to be seized and hoarded, but a flame to be passed from hand to hand, a responsibility that must never be extinguished.”

Unity Over Division

The president’s words carried particular weight as he referenced the escalating tensions between his administration and Sonko, his former Prime Minister and now Speaker of the National Assembly. Faye urged restraint, declaring, “No dispute, no matter how fierce, justifies tearing apart the nation we all share.”

Sonko, leader of the majority party and a key political figure, had publicly described the current political climate as “cohabitation,” a situation where power is shared uneasily between rivals. In a press conference, he called on Faye to “come down from his pedestal and engage in dialogue.”

Wade’s Legacy in a New Era

The national tribute to Abdoulaye Wade—who celebrated his 100th birthday on May 29—served as a backdrop for Faye’s broader reflections on leadership and national unity. Wade, who led Senegal from 2000 to 2012, was remembered for his unwavering belief in Senegalese resilience and his ability to navigate political storms without losing sight of the greater good.

Faye drew inspiration from Wade’s example, stating, “He taught us that an opponent today is not an enemy forever. They are a fellow citizen with a different vision—one with whom, once the battle is over, we must continue to share the same home in peace.”

The president’s message was met with applause during the ceremony at the Grand Théâtre de Dakar, where attendees recognized the gravity of his words amid the ongoing political turmoil. His references to the uncertainty gripping the nation and his split with Sonko struck a chord with the audience.

Hope Amidst Political Strife

Faye also praised Wade’s refusal to surrender to despair, even in the face of personal and political adversity. “He never lost faith in Senegal,” the president noted, “not even when a companion strayed into bitterness and hatred.”

As the political landscape in Senegal continues to evolve, Faye’s words serve as a reminder of the fragile balance between competition and cohesion. His speech underscored the importance of preserving democracy not just as a system, but as a shared commitment to the nation’s future.