Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has endorsed former President Macky Sall’s candidacy to become the next United Nations secretary-general, the foreign ministry said on Monday, giving his predecessor crucial backing from his home country despite deep political divisions.
Faye reached his decision after meeting Sall on Friday, according to the foreign ministry statement.
Sall, who governed Senegal from 2012 to 2024, is one of five candidates seeking to succeed U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, whose term ends on December 31.
Faye’s bid ‘is Senegal’s candidacy in service of Africa’
Faye instructed his government to “fully mobilise” support for Sall, saying his bid “is now Senegal’s candidacy in the service of Africa,” according to the statement.
The endorsement marks a significant political gesture from Faye, whose administration has frequently criticised Sall’s record.
Sall’s attempt to postpone the 2024 presidential election triggered deadly protests and was ultimately struck down by the Constitutional Council.
Faye won the election and succeeded Sall in April 2024, but relations have remained strained. Faye’s government has accused Sall’s administration of financial mismanagement and political repression, allegations Sall denies.
Burundi, which holds the African Union’s rotating presidency, nominated Sall for the U.N. role.
- Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has officially endorsed former President Macky Sall's candidacy for the next UN secretary-general.
- Faye's support comes despite deep political tensions and criticisms between his administration and Sall's.
- Sall, Senegal’s president from 2012 to 2024, is one of five candidates aiming to replace UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
- Faye urged his government to fully mobilize behind Sall, framing the bid as Senegal’s candidacy representing Africa.
- The endorsement follows Faye's rising to power after defeating Sall in April 2024 amid accusations and political strife between the two leaders.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has endorsed former President Macky Sall's candidacy to become the next United Nations secretary-general, the foreign ministry said on
Faye reached his decision after meeting Sall on Friday, according to the foreign ministry statement.
Sall, who governed Senegal from 2012 to 2024, is one of five candidates seeking to succeed U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, whose term ends on
Faye instructed his government to "fully mobilise" support for Sall, saying his bid "is now Senegal's candidacy in the service of Africa," according to the statement.
Sall's attempt to postpone the 2024 presidential election triggered deadly protests and was ultimately struck down by the Constitutional Council.
Faye won the election and succeeded Sall in April 2024, but relations have remained strained. Faye's government has accused Sall's administration of financial mismanagement and political repression, allegations Sall denies.
