Impact of Senegal’s Call for French Base Closure on West African Geopolitics
Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has raised concerns about the continued presence of French military bases in the country, suggesting that they may be incompatible with Senegal’s sovereignty and strategic autonomy.
In a speech delivered in May 2024, Sonko questioned the necessity of these bases more than 60 years after Senegal’s independence and indicated the possibility of their closure.
As of now, there is no official statement from Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, requesting the closure of French military bases.
The discussions initiated by Prime Minister Sonko reflect ongoing debates within Senegal regarding foreign military presence and its implications for national sovereignty.
It’s important to note that the situation is dynamic, and any developments would depend on official communications from the Senegalese government and subsequent diplomatic engagements with France.