A year after joining the Alliance for the Republic (APR) in the midst of the transition to opposition, intellectual and now politician Hamidou Anne delivers an uncompromising assessment of his first twelve months of activism. In an interview with Seneweb, he provides a sharp analysis of the national situation, addressing accusations of economic mismanagement, debates on cultural sovereignty and slush funds, while unveiling his party's ambitions to regain power by 2027.
"Everything is collapsing"
Asked about the quality of public debate, Hamidou Anne is categorical: "This judgment is as relentless as it is undeniable. You just have to see the curious characters who govern us reflecting in their way of speaking and acting their vulgarity and crudeness." He denounces public officials who "desacralize the presidential office, demonize and threaten members of the opposition, subject our country to financial markets and the mockery of foreigners: everything is collapsing."
The Republican cadre believes that the rift at the top of the state between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko worsens the situation. According to him, the current regime embodies a "failure" to which the APR must offer a credible alternative.
This rift, which led to Sonko's dismissal, has drawn mixed reactions. Waly Diouf Bodiang, a figure close to Sonko, reaffirmed his loyalty by declaring: "I am with Ousmane Sonko... In dignity, we will go with Ousmane Sonko to the palace in 2029." A message illustrating the persistent tensions within the presidential movement.
An alternative program for 2027
Hamidou Anne specifies that his main task is "the formulation of an alternative, modern, and radical program." The goal is to offer Senegalese people "a republican offer that combines rigor on core state issues, economic seriousness, and social voluntarism." He says he is satisfied with his partisan commitment, despite the sacrifices, and affirms that he walks with President Macky Sall, whom he considers a friend and mentor.
The former columnist, who swapped the pen for the activist card, says he does not regret his choice: "My mantra, when I decided to enter politics, was this: to be at the heart of the fray and above it. I think I still stick to it." He travels the country to listen to Senegalese people and build a "powerful and organized" party.
