The controversy that erupted following the remarks of Minister Cheikh Oumar Diagne calling the Senegalese riflemen “traitors” has sparked strong indignation within the African Federation of Descendants of Senegalese Riflemen. The minister’s inflammatory statement, made during an interview with the television channel Fafa TV, deeply offended the members of this federation who see these soldiers as heroes and not traitors.
Gueye Para, president of the association, expressed his anger at these remarks that call into question the honor and sacrifice of the Senegalese riflemen, particularly those who participated in the infamous Thiaroye massacre. According to him, the presence of Minister Cheikh Oumar Diagne at the commemorations of the Thiaroye massacre adds to the irony of his subsequent statements.
The decision of the African Federation of Descendants of Senegalese Riflemen to file a complaint against the minister in question shows its determination to defend the legacy and memory of the veterans. Gueye Para hopes that this action will have a significant impact and that the government will take adequate measures to repair the offense caused.
Cheikh Oumar Diagne’s remarks have also provoked reactions beyond the borders of Senegal, arousing the indignation of many African countries. These statements have not only offended the memory of the Senegalese riflemen, but have also tarnished the image of the entire Senegalese army in the eyes of the international community.
In this sense, the question of the responsibility of politicians and their duty of respect towards the history and sacrifice of veterans arises acutely. The incident highlights the need for continued awareness-raising on the role and contribution of Senegalese riflemen in the defense of freedom and universal values.
In conclusion, the complaint filed by the African Federation of Descendants of Senegalese Riflemen underlines the importance of preserving collective memory and respecting the legacy of fallen soldiers. It is essential that the authorities take appropriate measures to rectify this injustice and reaffirm the commitment to those who sacrificed their lives for an ideal greater than themselves.