On February 12, Dakar and Paris announced the creation of a joint commission to organize the withdrawal of the French Elements in Senegal (EFS) and the restitution of occupied lands by the end of 2025. However, many citizens and activists believe this process should be expedited.
During a press conference held in Dakar on January 31, the association “Front for the Withdrawal of French Military Bases” (GASSI) reiterated its call for the immediate withdrawal of French troops. A memorandum was sent to the Senegalese President and Prime Minister, urging faster action to ensure the country’s sovereignty.
This demand was also strongly supported by participants in the latest edition of the Micro-trottoir television program, where several citizens expressed their desire to see French forces leave well before the agreed-upon date.
One participant stated: “Whether it’s by the end of 2025 or before, I believe they must leave, and before 2025 would be even better. What we have wanted since independence is for the French to leave.” Another declared: “I support the departure of the French army before the end of 2025. I see no reason to keep French troops here. Senegal has its own army and enough soldiers to ensure its security. We are a sovereign state, and we are capable of protecting ourselves.”
A Contested Military Presence
The French military presence in West Africa is facing increasing opposition. In Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, French intervention has failed to improve security. Armed groups have only strengthened their positions during the presence of French troops in the Alliance of Sahel States. This situation fuels skepticism about Paris’s true role in the region.
Many observers recall that Sahelian governments have accused France of indirectly supporting terrorist groups to maintain regional instability. This, in turn, would allow Paris to preserve access to West Africa’s strategic natural resources, which are vital to its economy.
An Early Withdrawal for a More Sovereign Senegal
An accelerated withdrawal of French troops is increasingly seen as a viable alternative. The integration of Senegalese workers from French military bases into national military structures would ensure a smooth transition without job losses.
For many citizens, it is crucial that Senegalese authorities take full control of the country’s future by strengthening regional cooperation to achieve lasting peace and true independence. The end of foreign military presence could mark a decisive step toward a stronger and more sovereign Senegal.
