Ziguinchor: The Minister of the Armed Forces reiterates the State's commitment to peace and development in Casamance

On an official tour of Casamance, Yankhoba Diémé, Minister of the Armed Forces, dedicated his first day to meetings with kings, religious leaders, and traditional chiefs. Conveying the President's message, he emphasized the continuation of major projects under the Diomaye Plan and reaffirmed freedom of movement, citizen security, and the State's responsibility in preserving peace.

The Minister of the Armed Forces' visit to Casamance took on a highly symbolic dimension from its very first stages. Yankhoba Diémé was received by the King of Oussouye and his royal court, then by the Kings of Kalabone and Mlomp, before meeting with the guardians of the sacred grove and the traditional chiefs of the assembled villages. These audiences allowed the President to convey his message directly to the traditional authorities: the projects undertaken as part of the Diomaye Plan remain in place and are continuing, despite the slowdowns caused by the rainy season. The Ziguinchor–Kassak road, the Oussouye–Boulomp link, and the planned Ziguinchor bridge are among the key infrastructure projects expected to bring about lasting transformation in the region.

The Minister also addressed upcoming priorities, citing the Bignona-Diouloulou road, the Fogny loop, and essential healthcare infrastructure. "I am clearing the way for the President of the Republic's next visit to Casamance," he stated, emphasizing the continuity of the work and the commitment to building sustainable development.

Beyond the projects, Yankhoba Diémé emphasized that Casamance must remain a land of peace and freedom. "Everyone is free to do what they must do, everyone can go wherever they want. As Minister of the Armed Forces, it is our duty to ensure the safety of all citizens and to allow everyone to go about their business freely in the name of freedom of opinion and freedom of movement," he declared.

In response to rumors circulating on social media, he denounced the manipulation and reaffirmed his commitment: “The power we are given is not to be used against the population, but to organize the State and guarantee the freedom of each individual. The freedom of each citizen ends where that of another begins.” He thus called for a sense of responsibility, insisting that political action must take place in peace and courtesy.

The Minister also reiterated that the State is the guarantor of security and stability: "When you govern, you are responsible for everything, in every way. And when you oppose, you are not responsible for anything, in any way." This statement illustrates his commitment to placing responsibility at the heart of public action.

In short, Yankhoba Diémé assured everyone that his tour would proceed peacefully and that no incident would disrupt the mobilization of the population. "I only know Casamance, I only have Casamance, and I will do everything for Casamance because it is my contribution to Senegal," he declared, reaffirming that the State will remain the guarantor of peace, security, and development in this strategic region.