Senegal: A chaotic mandate between promises and disillusionment

Senegal, a land of welcome and political upheaval, recently celebrated the first anniversary of Bassirou Diomaye Faye's promising term. It's time to take stock: between outsized ambitions and tangible results, what can we learn from this year at the helm of the country? Brace yourself, because the answers are likely to be quite a stir.

Promises, a dish best served cold

When he took power, Faye embarked on a frantic race to modernize the country and meet the expectations of his fellow citizens. Let's face it, his flowery speeches and bold projects have made more than one Senegalese dream. But a year later, the facts are clear: polished promises that are slow to materialize. The much-vaunted infrastructure projects are stalling, leaving the population with a bitter taste and growing questions.

The economy: between mountains and seas

With a growth rate heralded as the beacon of his term, the young president attempted to attract foreign investors. However, the economic reality has proven quite different. Between the shock inflicted by the pandemic and the rising cost of living, Senegalese people are struggling to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Were austerity measures truly justified in a context where several sectors are suffering? Criticism is rife, and the sense of injustice is taking on worrying proportions.

Overheated governance

Faye's political management also raises questions. Between promises of transparency and cases of corruption emerging here and there, citizens often find themselves at a loss. Accusations of favoritism in the awarding of public contracts fuel the anger of the already irritated Senegalese. A wind of protest is blowing across the country, and demonstrations are intensifying, reflecting the population's legitimate discontent. The question then arises: Will Faye be able to right the ship before it sinks?

The road ahead

The road ahead for Bassirou Diomaye Faye is fraught with pitfalls. The challenge is daunting, and the clock is ticking. To regain the trust of his fellow citizens, a complete overhaul of economic and social policies is essential. More than a simple change of direction, a true revolution may be necessary. Senegal deserves better, and perhaps this is the time for Faye to turn his intentions into concrete actions.