Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the victorious anti-establishment leader in Senegal’s recent elections, was warmly received at the presidential palace by incumbent President Macky Sall on Thursday, signaling a smooth transition of power.
The meeting between the two leaders, following a period of electoral uncertainty, suggests a swift and peaceful transfer of leadership in a country known for its democratic stability in a region often marred by political turmoil.
Faye, aged 44, emerged triumphant in the election, which could soon be officially confirmed, securing 54.3 percent of the vote in the first round, according to provisional results. Outgoing President Sall’s chosen candidate, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, trailed with 35.8 percent.
The encounter between Sall and Faye was described as “courteous” by Sall’s office, with discussions encompassing key state matters and plans for the upcoming inauguration ceremony.
Faye’s journey to victory was marked by challenges, including his release from prison just ten days before the election, alongside his mentor, Ousmane Sonko, who was disqualified from the race due to a contested criminal conviction.
The constitutional court is expected to officially declare Faye as the winner before the weekend, facilitating a seamless transition before the end of Sall’s term on April 2.
Sall’s decision to postpone the election in February, citing security concerns, triggered a political crisis, leading to protests and fatalities. However, following the court’s directive to reschedule the vote for March 24, the electoral process resumed, culminating in Faye’s historic win.
Faye, a newcomer to elected office, is poised to assume the presidency, promising to prioritise national sovereignty and champion a programme of pan-Africanism in Senegal, a country with a population of approximately 18 million.