In a significant development concerning the alleged falsification of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s signature, the Dakar Criminal Court has deferred the final judgment to July 23, 2026. The postponement follows the absence of Cherif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as the presumed accomplice of Khardiata Tandian, the primary defendant in the case.
The court’s decision to adjourn the proceedings came as a surprise, as the original hearing date was set for July 9, 2026. Meanwhile, Khardiata Tandian remains in preventive detention, a situation her legal team has vigorously contested. Despite arguments from her lawyer that she meets all the criteria for provisional release—including her status as a married mother of one child—the court rejected the plea.
The defense team emphasized the prolonged duration of her incarceration, now exceeding a year, and argued that the time already served could effectively cover any potential sentence. They further warned that extended detention would severely disrupt her personal and social life. However, these points failed to sway the court’s decision.
The prosecutor strongly opposed her release, asserting that Khardiata Tandian’s freedom could pose a threat to public order and undermine her commitment to appear in court. The prosecution contended that there were insufficient guarantees to ensure her compliance with judicial proceedings. Although the defense countered that no risk of witness tampering existed—given that the defendant had already testified in court—the tribunal ultimately sided with the prosecution’s stance.
As a result, Khardiata Tandian will continue to be held in custody until the court delivers its final verdict next year. The prolonged detention underscores the gravity with which the judiciary views the charges against her.
