Senegal PM Ousmane Sonko grants first RFI interview, marking shift in foreign media stance

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, former opposition leader of the PASTEF party, appeared on France 24 and Radio France Internationale (RFI) in a joint interview, reversing his earlier vow never to speak to French media. The interview, conducted two years after his rise to the premiership, was described by a close aide as a calculated decision made as the new government consolidates its domestic position and negotiates economic reforms.

Observers note that the appearance signals a calibrated diplomatic overture toward Paris, aiming to address both Senegalese public opinion and wider regional and European audiences. Sonko’s team, which includes advisors from journalism and digital communication, prepared the interview in detail, covering topics such as economic policy, judicial reforms, and the country's strategic relationship with France. The move is seen as part of a broader professionalisation of Senegal’s public communication strategy and may influence upcoming legislative and budgetary debates.