Former Senegalese leader Macky Sall returns to Dakar for UN Secretary-General bid
The former President of Senegal, Macky Sall, who has been residing in Morocco since leaving office in March 2024, is set to visit Dakar on July 17, 2026. He will hold a meeting with the current Head of State, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as part of his campaign for the position of United Nations Secretary-General.
In a statement released by his office, Macky Sall expressed gratitude toward President Bassirou Diomaye Faye for the scheduled audience. He also thanked the Senegalese people for their continued support since announcing his candidacy. “As part of the consultations and visits undertaken for my United Nations Secretary-General bid, I will travel to Senegal on Friday, July 17, 2026,” he noted. “I am deeply grateful to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye for this opportunity and to the Senegalese people for their unwavering encouragement.”
Political backlash and controversy surround the visit
The announcement has already sparked significant debate within Senegal’s political landscape, particularly among supporters of the Pastef party led by Ousmane Sonko. Critics argue that hosting Macky Sall could imply endorsement of pre-election violence, economic mismanagement, and financial irregularities during his presidency. It is worth noting that while Sall is pursuing the UN role, his candidacy has not been formally endorsed by Senegal but by Burundi.
A political career spanning two decades
Macky Sall served as President of Senegal from 2012 to 2024, succeeding his political mentor, Abdoulaye Wade. Prior to that, he held the position of President of the National Assembly. His political career also includes terms as Prime Minister, Minister of Mines, Energy, and Hydraulics, Minister of the Interior, and as Director-General of PETROSEN, the national oil company.
Post-presidency activism and global engagements
Since relocating to Marrakech after stepping down, Macky Sall has remained highly active on the international stage. He has participated in numerous summits, conferences, and high-level meetings, engaging with world leaders to strengthen his UN candidacy. His diplomatic efforts reflect a continued commitment to public service beyond Senegal’s borders.
