Rédaction Africa Links 24 with pierre Dieme
Published on 2024-03-15 20:28:20
Was there negotiation between the government and the leader of Pastef at Cap Manuel? The main person involved, Ousmane Sonko, clarified this issue on Friday, March 15, during a press conference co-hosted with candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye. He stated that there were indeed discussions but not a deal as some claim. In fact, in a spirit of transparency, the now former detainee of Cap Manuel revealed the essence of these negotiations.
“There were discussions that focused on 4 points, including the postponement of the presidential election scheduled for February 25, 2024. I was categorical about this. I told them that the rejection of my candidacy could not under any circumstances justify the postponement of the election,” said Ousmane Sonko on Friday, following his release after over 200 days of detention.
“I did everything in my power to prevent the elections from being postponed. I even asked my lawyers not to file a motion to stop the proceedings in the Mame Mbaye Niang case to prevent him from using it as an excuse. I called Habib Sy to ask him to tell his former friends from the PDS not to let themselves be manipulated by President Sall to postpone the elections,” he revealed, swearing that there was “no exchange” and “no compensation was given to anyone.”
Sonko also emphasized that he had refused to negotiate on the issue of changing the date of the election, showing his commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the elections would proceed as scheduled. This statement aimed to dispel any rumors or suspicions about possible deals being made in exchange for his release.
Overall, Sonko’s transparency regarding the discussions and negotiations that took place between him and the authorities at Cap Manuel demonstrated his dedication to his principles and his unwavering stance on democratic principles and the integrity of the electoral process. His actions and statements reflected his strong commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the upcoming elections would be conducted fairly and in accordance with the established procedures.
Read the original article(French) on Dakar Matin
