Senegal is marking a pivotal moment in its history, commemorating the 80th anniversary of a horrific massacre where African soldiers, who valiantly fought for France during World War II, were brutally shot down by French troops in 1944. This tragic event unfolded in Thiaroye, a fishing village near Dakar, as these soldiers demanded fair treatment and payment upon their return. The ceremony drew significant attention, with France’s foreign affairs minister and various African leaders present, amplifying Senegal’s relentless quest for justice and accountability.
For decades, Senegal has been vocal in its demands for France to take responsibility for this atrocity, seeking an official apology and a thorough investigation into the massacre. While the French military claims that between 35 to 75 soldiers were killed, historians argue that the death toll was much higher, estimating nearly 400 casualties. This discrepancy has led to mounting international pressure for the exhumation of mass graves to ascertain the true number of victims, as accusations of France concealing or manipulating records persist.
France Acknowledges the Tragedy
In a significant development, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye revealed that France has finally acknowledged its soldiers' role in the Thiaroye massacre, a statement that comes through a letter from French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron stated, “France must recognise that on that day, the confrontation between soldiers and riflemen who demanded their full, legitimate wages triggered a chain of events that resulted in a massacre.” He also expressed his commitment to collaborating with Senegalese officials to uncover the truth behind the killings.
Former Senegalese Prime Minister Aminata Toure emphasized the importance of this moment, declaring it a “moment of justice” for the younger generation, which constitutes 70 percent of the population. She highlighted the need for them to understand their history, stating, “This massacre has been hidden, and now we are unfolding the truth.” As France faces increasing scrutiny over its military presence in Africa, this commemoration serves as a stark reminder of the past and the ongoing struggle for recognition and reconciliation.
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