Experts call for transparency in Thiaroye Massacre
Senegal has requested full access to the Thiaroye massacre archives, as experts seek clarity regarding one of the country’s darkest moments in colonial history. Senegal’s new administration is committed to ensure that the tragedy is remembered, thus a ceremony was conducted at the Thiaroye military base to memorialize the victims.
The massacre occurred on December 1, 1944, when the French troops opened fire on African soldiers who were demanding payment.
Eighty years later, with many facts still unclear and the exact number of casualties unknown, Senegal’s new government, which took power in April, is determined to memorialize this horrific event. A mournful ceremony took place on Sunday, December 1st.
at the Thiaroye military base to commemorate those killed in this heinous atrocity.
However, the memorial has created a debate in France. French legislator Aurélien Taché questioned President Emmanuel Macron’s absence from the event, calling it “surprising” considering the commemoration of one of the most brutal colonial killings in history.
Taché told the French National Assembly, “He admitted it was a massacre after decades of state deceit, in which France, in a disgraceful gesture, accused these soldiers of rebellion to excuse the executions. But even acknowledging one of the greatest colonial killings in our history was unable to persuade him to attend the ceremony.The dispute continues as Senegal advocates for full recognition and transparency regarding this colonial catastrophe.
