His appearance before the National Assembly allowed General Birame Diop, Minister of the Armed Forces, to clarify several points within his purview. The Minister faced a series of questions focused on the country's security situation, marked by persistent challenges in Casamance, increasing pressure on the eastern borders, and the looming jihadist threat in the sub-region. Members of Parliament questioned the Minister about the actual state of national security, the existing mechanisms, and the capacity of the Defense and Security Forces to anticipate any attempt at destabilization. "We don't wait for insecurity to strike; we prepare in advance. We work extensively on prevention," he stated.

Casamance, a still fragile peace

The issue of Casamance was raised repeatedly in the interventions of several members of parliament. While the peace process has led to significant progress in recent years, the deputies reiterated that the region remains marked by pockets of instability, the sporadic presence of armed groups, and the persistence of anti-personnel mines in certain areas. In response to these concerns, General Birame Diop sought to reassure them: "The situation is under control, even if it requires constant vigilance." He indicated that "security and search operations continue to be conducted, in collaboration with local populations, with the aim of definitively consolidating peace." The minister also emphasized the important role of dialogue, opening up access to isolated areas, and economic development in the lasting stabilization of this region, which has long been ravaged by conflict.

Eastern borders: heightened vigilance

The eastern borders, particularly in the areas bordering Mali, have raised serious concerns. Elected officials highlighted the resurgence of attacks in neighboring countries and the risk of insecurity spreading into Senegalese territory. In response, General Diop stated that "Senegal has significantly reinforced its security measures along its borders. Regular patrols, forward operating bases, and increased cooperation with the security forces of neighboring countries have been established to prevent any infiltration or attack." He emphasized that "the Senegalese army remains on constant alert, with the capacity to react quickly to any attempt at destabilization."

The jihadist threat in the sub-region: a danger taken very seriously

The rise of terrorist groups in parts of West Africa has deeply alarmed members of parliament. They questioned the minister about Senegal's potential vulnerability to this cross-border threat, fueled by regional instability.

General Birame Diop acknowledged "the reality and seriousness of this threat, while emphasizing that Senegal is not currently among the countries directly affected by these attacks." However, he stressed "the need for constant vigilance, continuous strengthening of intelligence capabilities, and close international cooperation." The minister also highlighted the importance of prevention, particularly through community monitoring and close collaboration with border populations.

A call for unity and support for the Armed Forces

At the end of his address, the Minister of the Armed Forces made a strong appeal for national unity on the issue of defense and security. He reiterated that "faced with multifaceted threats—terrorism, transnational crime, and regional instability—the country must remain united and provide unwavering support to its defense forces." He emphasized that the concept of a nation-armed force is sound, but that the military must not lose its composure so that it can respond at any moment to defend territorial integrity. "The army needs to be in control of the terrain and to conduct exercises," he said. "Thus, through vigilance, anticipation, and cooperation, the Senegalese state intends to maintain a firm stance in the face of security challenges, both in Casamance and along its borders, in a regional context marked by persistent tensions," the Minister concluded.