Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye has sparked a diplomatic stir by demanding the closure of all French military bases in the West African country, citing concerns over national sovereignty and independence. In an interview with AFP, Faye emphasized that Senegal welcomes France's partnership, but only without military intervention.

Faye's stance is seen as a significant shift in Senegal's stance towards its former colonial ruler, France. The president's comments come on the heels of French President Emmanuel Macron's admission of France's involvement in the 1944 "massacre" of Senegalese soldiers. While Faye welcomed the admission, he stressed that the presence of French military bases in Senegal violates the country's sovereignty.

"Senegal is an independent country, it is a sovereign country, and sovereignty does not accept the presence of military bases in a sovereign country," Faye stated. He drew parallels with Senegal's partnership with China, noting that despite being the country's largest trading partner, China does not maintain a military presence in Senegal.

Faye's sentiments are not new; in May, Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko expressed similar concerns, stating that the country's desire for self-determination was "incompatible with the entrenched presence of foreign military bases" in Senegal. Sonko questioned the reasons behind the French army's continued presence in the country, citing the impact on national sovereignty and strategic autonomy.

The development is seen as a significant milestone in Senegal's journey towards asserting its independence and sovereignty. Since taking office, Faye has been on a mission to reform the country, conducting an audit of the oil, gas, and mining sector, among other initiatives.

The move is also likely to have far-reaching implications for France's military presence in West Africa and its relationships with other African nations. As Senegal seeks to chart its own course, it remains to be seen how France will respond to the demand and what this means for the future of their partnership.

In the broader context, Senegal's stance highlights the ongoing debate around foreign military presence in Africa and the need for African nations to assert their sovereignty and independence. As the continent continues to navigate its complex relationships with external powers, Senegal's move is likely to be closely watched by other African nations and international observers alike.