After departing from Senegal’s political scene in March 2024, former President Macky Sall will return to Dakar on July 17 for a high-profile meeting with current Head of State Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The visit, announced in a personal statement from Sall, is framed as part of his ongoing consultations for the United Nations Secretary-General candidacy.
The former leader, who has been based in Marrakech since leaving office, expressed gratitude in his official note: “As part of the consultations and visits related to my candidacy for the position of UN Secretary-General, I will travel to Senegal on Friday, July 17, 2026. I sincerely thank His Excellency President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye for this opportunity and extend my deepest appreciation to the people of Senegal for their unwavering support since my announcement.”
Political tensions rise over Sall’s diplomatic return
The planned meeting has already sparked debate within Senegal’s political landscape, particularly within the ranks of the Pastef party led by Ousmane Sonko. Critics argue that welcoming Macky Sall could be interpreted as an endorsement of pre-electoral unrest and past governance failures, including mismanagement of national resources. Notably, Sall’s UN bid has not been officially backed by Senegal but rather by Burundi.
From political roots to international prominence: Sall’s career recap
Macky Sall served as President of Senegal from 2012 to 2024, succeeding his political mentor, Abdoulaye Wade. Prior to that, he held the position of President of the National Assembly. His political journey also includes serving as Prime Minister in 2004, stepping into the role following Idrissa Seck.
Before ascending to these leadership positions, Sall held key ministerial roles: from May 2001 to November 2002 as Minister of Mines, Energy, and Hydraulics, followed by a brief stint as Minister of State for the same portfolio. In August 2003, he transitioned to the role of Minister of State overseeing Interior and Local Governments, serving as government spokesperson. Earlier in his career, he directed PETROSEN, Senegal’s national petroleum company.
Since leaving office and relocating to Marrakech, Sall has remained actively engaged on the global stage. He has participated in numerous international summits and diplomatic engagements, engaging with world leaders and conducting strategic consultations in support of his international ambitions.
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