As Senegal marks the 80th anniversary of the tragic events at Thiaroye military camp, President Faye calls for truth and potential reparations.
France Acknowledges Colonial Massacre in Senegal, Sparking Renewed Reflections
France Acknowledges Colonial Massacre in Senegal, Sparking Renewed Reflections
In an unprecedented move, France admits to a historical massacre involving Senegalese soldiers, igniting discussions on colonial relationships and accountability.
France has for the first time formally recognized that its soldiers carried out a massacre involving West African troops in Senegal during World War II, according to Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This acknowledgment pertains to the Tirailleurs Senegalais, a unit that consisted of African recruits enlisted to support France against the anticipated German invasion.
Following their liberation from German captivity in 1944, these soldiers returned to a military camp in Thiaroye, a short distance from Dakar. Historians have noted that upon their return, the troops expressed grievances over their unequal pay compared to their French counterparts. As tensions escalated, the colonial authorities responded brutally to the protests on December 1, eventually resulting in violence that left dozens, with estimates reaching up to 400, dead.
In a letter to President Faye, French President Emmanuel Macron described these events as a grim wake-up call, stating, “France must recognize that on that day, the confrontation between soldiers and riflemen who demanded their full legitimate wages be paid, triggered a chain of events that resulted in a massacre.” Previously, former President François Hollande referred to the incident as a "bloody repression" in 2014, yet never acknowledged the term 'massacre.'
As Senegal prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the shootings, Faye expressed optimism about this newfound recognition, suggesting it could lead to uncovering the "whole truth about this painful event." He indicated that he might also seek a formal apology from France. Despite Senegal's independence sixty-four years ago, the country still hosts French military bases, a fact Faye challenges by emphasizing Senegal's sovereignty.
"The presence of military bases in a sovereign country is unacceptable,” Faye asserted, pointing towards a potential recalibration of the Senegal-France relationship as both countries engage in discussions regarding their collective past.
Anticipating further dialogue on these historical grievances, Senegal strives for a transparent and collaborative approach as they navigate this sensitive chapter in their history.
