In a significant move, the French government has posthumously recognized six African soldiers, including M'Bap Senghor, as "dead for France" for their execution in Thiaroye, Senegal, on December 1, 1944. This acknowledgment comes after decades of advocacy from families like that of Biram Senghor, who has fought for justice since learning of his father's death at a young age.

The recognition was quietly announced on June 18, just before a meeting between Senegal's new president and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko responded critically, emphasizing that France cannot unilaterally dictate the narrative of this tragic history.

He called for a reevaluation of France's approach to acknowledging its colonial past, especially as Senegal prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre.

The event remains a painful memory for many, with ongoing debates about the true number of victims and their burial sites.