Ma part de Wade (Babacar DIAGNE)
There are statesmen who leave their mark on an era. And then there are those who leave their mark on lives. Abdoulaye Wade belongs to this second category.
On the occasion of his 100th birthday, many will talk about his political work, his struggles, his exceptional career, and his role in history.
of Senegal and Africa. Others will remember him as a tireless opponent, a democrat, a builder, or a visionary. All of this is true.
But today, I would like to talk about my part of Wade.
The intimate side. The human side. The part that we don't always see behind the stature of the historical figure.
I had the privilege of working alongside him, observing him, listening to him, and serving him in a humble way. And in this close proximity, I discovered a
a man of rare intelligence, an impressive memory, an undiminished curiosity, but above all, an extraordinary attentiveness to
those who surrounded him.
One day, in front of many witnesses, he uttered this phrase that I will never forget:
"His strength lies in his ability to react instantly when I make a request, with extreme efficiency and competence, without ever asking."
Financial assistance, and above all, without seeking any kind of visibility.
These words, coming from a man who has known so many colleagues, so many managers, and so many powerful people, had a value for me
Immense. Not as a political reward, but as human recognition.
Serving a man like Wade required more than just skills. It required loyalty, responsiveness, hard work, discretion, and a
ability to understand his speed of thought. With him, you had to be ready even before the request was fully formulated.
I learned from him that politics could be a school of endurance, intelligence, and self-improvement. I also learned that the real
Proximity to power is measured neither by noise nor by media exposure, but by silent trust.
At 100 years old, Abdoulaye Wade now belongs to history. But for many of us, he also remains a living memory, a style,
a voice, a demand, a way of thinking and acting.
Everyone carries their share of Wade.
Here's mine.
Happy birthday, Mr. President.
Babacar DIAGNE
Journalist
Former Special Advisor in charge of Communication to President Abdoulaye Wade
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