Senegal: macky sall’s pivotal Dakar return for un secretary-general bid

First visit to Senegal since departing office 

Macky Sall personally announced via social media that his journey to Dakar on Friday would culminate in discussions with his successor, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This marks his inaugural visit to Senegalese soil since relinquishing the presidency on April 3, 2024. The former head of state clarified that he intends to depart “immediately” following this crucial encounter, which is specifically arranged for consultations related to his bid for the United Nations Secretary-General post.

A contested candidacy 

Breaking from established norms, Macky Sall’s candidacy for the UN top job was not formally put forth by Senegal itself, but rather by Burundi, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the African Union. As early as late March, a significant number of approximately twenty AU member states, including Senegal, had collectively declined to back his ambition to succeed Antonio Guterres. At present, the Senegalese presidency has refrained from officially confirming the meeting that the former president publicly announced.

Persistent political sensitivities 
  

Macky Sall’s return unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing criticism regarding his administration’s handling of opposition demonstrations between 2021 and 2024, a turbulent period that regrettably saw dozens of fatalities. The new authorities have committed to thorough investigations into these incidents, despite the existence of an amnesty law covering actions committed during that timeframe. In March, a collective identifying as victims of repression publicly voiced strong opposition to the former president’s bid for the UN’s highest office, leveling accusations of “blood and economic crimes” against him.

An eagerly awaited discussion 

The upcoming meeting between Macky Sall and Bassirou Diomaye Faye will be meticulously observed, particularly as the former president endeavors to consolidate support for his international candidacy. This high-stakes discussion could also provide significant insights into the evolving dynamic between Senegal’s new leadership and their predecessor, set against a political landscape still shaped by past grievances and contentions. This event is vital for understanding the future of African politics and Senegal’s role on the global stage, drawing attention from across the continent press and beyond.