The Regional Express Train Operating Company (SETER) is currently experiencing a deep internal crisis, marked by persistent tensions and growing distrust of its CEO, Charles Civreis, and the Chairman of the Board, Pierre Boutier. At the heart of the concerns are accusations of managerial misconduct and widespread unease among staff, according to Les Échos.

According to several internal accounts reported by the newspaper, the work environment has deteriorated considerably, described as "suffocating," dominated by fear, humiliation, and a sense of contempt. The management style is characterized by some sources as arrogant and condescending, with excessive micromanagement and repeated challenges. The term "managerial colonization" is frequently used, with employees feeling they are treated with distance or condescension. These tensions are believed to have directly contributed to the departure of several experienced Senegalese managers, who reportedly felt marginalized and undervalued.

Recruitment and suspicions of favoritism

The newspaper, citing internal sources, also highlights the recruitment of expatriates at what are considered very high salary levels, notably the replacement of a Senegalese administrative and financial director by an expatriate, as well as the arrival of a Contract Director from a French firm. Some also accuse the CEO, Charles Civreis, of favoring French companies when awarding contracts. Others allege pressure or manipulation of data to influence the renewal of the Operation and Maintenance Contract (CEM), which expires in January 2026. Faced with this "explosive" situation, some employees are calling on President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to intervene.

SETER refutes the accusations

On the other side, the General Management firmly rejects these allegations and maintains that the social climate remains "good and stable." Quoted by Les Échos, it emphasizes the transparency of the recent staff representative elections and affirms its commitment to maintaining ongoing social dialogue. Regarding expatriates, SETER specifies that they now number only seven out of more than a thousand employees—a significant decrease compared to the project's launch—and that each has at least 25 years of experience to ensure the effective transfer of skills. It further notes that more than 150 local staff have been promoted since the TER's opening.