After relocating to Morocco following his departure from office in March 2024, former Senegalese President Macky Sall is set to return to Dakar on July 17 for a meeting with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The visit, as announced by Sall himself, is part of his campaign for the position of United Nations Secretary-General.
In a statement, Macky Sall expressed his gratitude to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye for the opportunity to engage in discussions during his stay in the capital. He also conveyed his appreciation to the Senegalese people for their unwavering support since he announced his candidacy. “As part of the consultations and visits I have undertaken regarding my bid for the UN Secretary-General role, I will travel to Senegal on Friday, July 17, 2026,” he stated.
The upcoming meeting has already sparked debates and criticism within Senegal’s political landscape, particularly among members of the Pastef party led by Ousmane Sonko. Some activists argue that welcoming Macky Sall implies endorsement of the pre-election violence and allegations of economic mismanagement that marked his presidency. It is worth noting that Senegal has not officially backed Sall’s UN candidacy, which has instead been championed by Burundi.
Macky Sall’s political career in Senegal
Macky Sall served as President of Senegal from 2012 to 2024, succeeding his political mentor, Abdoulaye Wade. Before ascending to the presidency, he held the position of Speaker of the National Assembly. His political journey also includes roles as Prime Minister, replacing Idrissa Seck in 2004, and prior ministerial positions such as Minister of Mines, Energy, and Hydraulics from May 2001 to November 2002.
From November 2002 to August 2003, he served as Minister of State for Mines, Energy, and Hydraulics. Between August 2003 and April 2004, he held the dual role of Minister of State for Interior and Local Governments while also serving as government spokesperson. Additionally, he previously led PETROSEN as its Director-General.
International engagements post-presidency
Since leaving office and settling in Marrakech, Macky Sall has remained actively involved in global affairs. He has participated in numerous international summits and meetings, engaging with world leaders to strengthen diplomatic ties and advance his UN candidacy.
