Senegal Presidency Facebook Page Targeted by Online Abuse – JAMRA Calls for Respect & Cybercrime Crackdown
Dakar, Senegal – November 16, 2025 – In a rapidly developing story, the official Facebook page of the President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, is facing a barrage of insults and offensive content, prompting a strong rebuke from the non-governmental organization JAMRA. This breaking news highlights a growing concern about online civility and the protection of national institutions in the digital age, a challenge facing governments worldwide. This isn’t just a Senegalese issue; it’s a global reflection of the challenges of moderating online discourse and maintaining respect for leadership in the age of social media. For those following Google News, this story underscores the importance of digital governance.
“A Shameful Outrage”: NGO Demands Accountability
Mame Makhtar Guèye, Vice-President of JAMRA, issued a press release today describing the situation as “a shame” and an “unacceptable outrage to republican morality.” He condemned the “avalanche of insults and bad words” being posted on the page, emphasizing its role as the “digital showcase” of the Senegalese Executive. With over three billion Facebook users globally as of January 2025, the page represents a crucial point of contact between the government and both citizens and the international community.
Guèye’s statement wasn’t simply a plea for politeness. He directly challenged the “insulters, without faith or law,” reminding them that the presidential office, regardless of who holds it, embodies the core constitutional principles of Senegal – serving as the keystone of institutions, guardian of the Constitution, and supreme leader of the armed forces. This isn’t about defending a person, but defending the office itself.
The Economic Impact of Online Negativity: A Global Village Concern
JAMRA’s concerns extend beyond mere decorum. Guèye highlighted the potential economic repercussions of this online negativity. In today’s interconnected world – a concept famously articulated by Marshall McLuhan in his 1967 work, “The Medium is the Massage” – potential investors routinely assess a country’s digital presence before committing resources. A hostile online environment, particularly on official government platforms, can significantly deter foreign investment. This is a critical aspect of SEO for nations – their online reputation directly impacts their economic viability.
The presidential Facebook page, according to Guèye, has “finally transformed into a digital battlefield,” a space where invective reigns supreme. He stressed that the presidential function isn’t a personal possession of the current officeholder, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, or any of his predecessors – Senghor, Diouf, Wade, and Sall – but a temporary trust bestowed by the Senegalese people.
A History of Transition & The Impermanence of Power
Guèye powerfully illustrated this point by referencing the transitions of power in Senegal’s history. He noted that none of the former presidents took the “mantle” of the office with them upon leaving power, emphasizing its inherent impermanence and its belonging to the Republic, not the individual. This historical context adds weight to JAMRA’s call for respect, framing it not as a partisan issue, but as a defense of Senegal’s democratic principles.
Cybercrime Unit Mobilized: A Digital Hunt is On
Responding to the escalating situation, JAMRA revealed that Senegalese authorities have launched a “vast hunt” for those responsible for the online abuse. The Special Cybercrime Division (DSC) is leading the effort, utilizing cyber patrollers to identify and prosecute individuals hiding behind anonymous profiles. Guèye warned that IP addresses can be easily traced, and perpetrators will face legal consequences.
This proactive approach signals a growing commitment to digital security and accountability in Senegal. It also reflects a broader trend globally, where governments are increasingly taking steps to combat online harassment and protect their digital infrastructure. Understanding the legal frameworks surrounding cybercrime is becoming increasingly important for both citizens and businesses.
The situation unfolding in Senegal serves as a stark reminder that the digital realm is not a lawless space. Respect for institutions, even in the online world, is paramount, and those who violate that respect will be held accountable. As Senegal navigates this challenge, its response will be closely watched by other nations grappling with similar issues. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on this developing story and for in-depth analysis of the evolving landscape of digital governance and online security.