Khardiata Tandian’s detention extended as fake signature case adjourned again

In a case that has drawn significant public attention, Khardiata Tandian remains behind bars as the court continues to deliberate over the alleged forgery of Ousmane Sonko’s signature. The Dakar Criminal Court had initially scheduled its ruling for July 9, 2026, but the judge once again deferred the decision, this time to July 23.

The reason behind the latest postponement

The trial has been repeatedly delayed due to the absence of a key figure in the case: Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as Tandian’s alleged accomplice. The court insists on his presence before finalizing its verdict. This marks the second adjournment in the proceedings, with the first delay also attributed to the same procedural requirement.

Defense pushes for provisional release

During this latest hearing, Khardiata Tandian’s legal team filed a motion for her provisional release. The defense argued that all procedural documents had already been submitted, eliminating the need for her continued detention. They further contended that releasing her would not jeopardize the investigation or influence witnesses, as she had already been questioned by the court.

The lawyer emphasized that Tandian has been in custody for over a year, suggesting that any potential sentence could be served by the time already spent behind bars. Additionally, they highlighted the severe social and familial strain her imprisonment has caused, as she is a married mother with a child.

Prosecutor opposes release on grounds of public order

Despite the defense’s arguments, the prosecution strongly objected to the provisional release. The public prosecutor argued that granting freedom to Tandian could disrupt public order and that she did not provide sufficient guarantees to ensure her presence throughout the trial. The court ultimately sided with the prosecution, rejecting the defense’s motion.

Next steps hinge on the missing accused

With Khardiata Tandian still in detention, the court’s next hearing on July 23 will focus on the long-awaited testimony of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy. His absence has repeatedly stalled the proceedings, leaving the fate of the accused unresolved. Unless unexpected changes occur, the court will deliver its verdict on that date, keeping Tandian imprisoned until then.