A significant return since the end of his presidential tenure 

Macky Sall personally confirmed on his social media that he would be traveling to Dakar this Friday for discussions with his successor, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This marks his inaugural visit to Senegal since he stepped down from the presidency on April 3, 2024. The former head of state indicated that he intends to depart “immediately” following this crucial encounter, which is specifically arranged to advance consultations regarding his bid for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations.

A UN bid facing internal divisions 

In a departure from established diplomatic norms, Macky Sall’s candidacy for the top UN role has not been officially presented by Senegal. Instead, it was put forth by Burundi, which currently holds the rotating chairmanship of the African Union. As early as late March, approximately twenty member states of the AU, including Senegal itself, declined to throw their support behind his aspiration to succeed Antonio Guterres. At present, the Senegalese presidency has not issued any official confirmation regarding the meeting announced by the former president.

A politically charged environment 
  

Macky Sall’s return unfolds amidst a politically sensitive backdrop, characterized by widespread criticism concerning his administration’s handling of opposition protests between 2021 and 2024. This tumultuous period tragically resulted in dozens of fatalities. The new authorities in power have pledged to thoroughly investigate these events, despite the existence of an amnesty law that covers actions committed during that time. In March, a coalition identifying as victims of repression publicly voiced their strong opposition to the former president’s UN candidacy, leveling accusations of “crimes of blood and economic crimes” against him.

An eagerly anticipated discussion 

The upcoming meeting between Macky Sall and Bassirou Diomaye Faye will be meticulously observed, as the former president actively seeks to consolidate international support for his ambitious global endeavor. This encounter is also expected to offer valuable insights into the evolving relationship between Senegal’s current leadership and their predecessor, set against a political landscape still grappling with unresolved issues from the past. The outcome could significantly impact the broader political dynamics within the West Africa Sahel region.