Senegal: Ousmane Sonko demands historical justice from France over Thiaroye 44 massacre

In a compelling address, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has issued a stern rebuke to France, criticizing its recent decision to grant the designation “death for France” to African soldiers massacred in Thiaroye in 1944.

As the leader of Pastef-Les-Patriotes, Sonko insists that this recognition is insufficient and fails to adequately acknowledge the gravity of the historical atrocity.

Speaking at a press conference, Prime Minister Sonko emphasized that France’s gesture comes far too late and is sorely inadequate. He pointed out that Senegal is on the cusp of commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre, a somber reminder of a dark chapter in history that demands a more profound and genuine acknowledgment from the former colonial power.

“It is high time for France to reassess its stance on this matter,” Sonko declared. “Africa will no longer accept being a mere spectator in the rewriting of its own history. The narrative of Thiaroye 44, and other such events, must be told with the truth and respect they deserve.”

Prime Minister Sonko’s remarks come as part of a broader call for fairer recognition and reparations for the victims of the Thiaroye massacre and their descendants. He insists that the simplistic label of “death for France” does not capture the true extent of the brutality faced by the African soldiers who were killed after demanding fair treatment and compensation for their service during World War II.

Sonko’s passionate plea underscores a growing sentiment across Africa for historical justice and autonomy in narrating its own past. The Prime Minister contends that the Thiaroye massacre, like many other historical events, needs to be recast in a new light—one that reflects the perspectives and experiences of Africans themselves, rather than being filtered through a colonial lens.

The Thiaroye massacre, which took place in December 1944, involved the killing of West African soldiers by French forces after the soldiers protested for better pay and conditions following their return from fighting in Europe. The incident has long been a point of contention and a painful memory for many in Senegal and other African nations whose soldiers were involved.

As Senegal prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of this tragedy, Prime Minister Sonko’s call to action serves as a poignant reminder of the need for historical redress. His demand for fair recognition and reparations resonates not only within Senegal but across the African continent, which continues to grapple with the legacies of colonialism.

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s unequivocal stance signals a pivotal moment in the quest for historical justice. It is a clarion call for France and other former colonial powers to confront their past actions with honesty and integrity, and to work towards a future that honors the true stories and sacrifices of African people.

As the anniversary approaches, all eyes will be on how France responds to this impassioned plea for a more accurate and respectful commemoration of the Thiaroye massacre.

The outcome will undoubtedly shape the ongoing dialogue about historical justice and reconciliation between Africa and its former colonizers.