The legal saga surrounding the alleged falsification of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko’s signature has taken yet another unexpected turn in Dakar. Khardiata Tandian, a key figure in the case, remains behind bars as the Correctional Court of Dakar once again postponed its verdict, this time to July 23, 2026.
This marks the second adjournment in the high-profile case, originally scheduled for July 9. The presiding judge cited the continued absence of a second defendant—Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as Tandian’s alleged accomplice—as the reason for the delay. His presence is deemed essential before the court can finalize its decision.
Meanwhile, Tandian’s legal team seized the opportunity to file a motion for her provisional release. The defense argued that all procedural documents had already been submitted and that the pre-trial phase was effectively complete. They also emphasized that their client had been detained for over a year—longer than any potential sentence she might face—while stressing the growing social and familial strain on her as a mother and married woman.
However, the prosecution staunchly opposed the request. The public prosecutor warned that granting bail could disrupt public order and claimed that Tandian did not meet the necessary guarantees to ensure her continued presence in court. The judge ultimately sided with the prosecution, rejecting the motion and ordering Tandian’s continued detention.
The case now hinges on the upcoming appearance of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy. The tribunal has made it clear that no final ruling will be issued until all parties involved have been heard. Barring any further developments, the court’s decision is now slated for July 23—leaving Tandian in prison with no resolution in sight.
