By John Ikani
Senegalese Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has suggested the closure of French military bases in the nation.
During a conference in Dakar, Sonko questioned the necessity of maintaining several French bases in Senegal, more than six decades after the country achieved independence from France.
He expressed concerns about the influence of the French military presence on Senegal’s sovereignty.
“I reiterate here the desire of Senegal to have its own control, which is incompatible with the lasting presence of foreign military bases in Senegal,” the premier is quoted as saying.
There are approximately 350 French troops currently stationed in Senegal.
Sonko vowed to enhance ties with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, countries that have removed French troops and sought support from Russia to tackle jihadist insurgencies.
A dynamic politician, Sonko was appointed prime minister by President Bassirou Faye, who was elected in March.
