Macron Acknowledges 1944 Senegal Massacre by French Colonial Forces

In a recent correspondence, Emmanuel Macron acknowledged that the French colonial army perpetrated a massacre at Thiaroye near Dakar on December 1, 1944. This admission raises questions about its effects on Franco-Senegalese relations.

Emmanuel Macron Acknowledges Colonial Massacre

In a historic move, French President Emmanuel Macron has officially acknowledged the atrocities committed by French colonial forces in Thiaroye, near Dakar, in 1944, highlighting France’s historical responsibility.

The Context of the Thiaroye Tragedy

In December 1944, over 1,600 Senegalese riflemen, former prisoners of war who had fought in 1940, were gathered at Thiaroye. Two weeks after their arrival, as they demanded unpaid wages and various combat bonuses, French colonial forces opened fire. Official records from that time acknowledged at least 35 deaths, but historians believe the toll could be in the hundreds.

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A “Major Step,” Says Senegalese President

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye described Macron’s acknowledgment as a “major step.” In his letter, Macron apologized for his absence at the 80th anniversary commemorations of the massacre due to scheduling conflicts.

France must acknowledge that on that day, the clash between soldiers and riflemen demanding their rightful pay led to a series of events culminating in a massacre.

Letter from Emmanuel Macron

Potential French Apology Requested

The Senegalese president hinted at the possibility of France formally apologizing in the future. “Acknowledging that a massacre was perpetrated naturally leads to amends. Without exaggeration, this is what should naturally follow,” he stated.