In a highly anticipated announcement, President Macky Sall of Senegal has officially declared that he will not pursue a third term in the forthcoming presidential election, effectively putting an end to years of speculation about his political aspirations. This revelation comes in the wake of recent opposition protests that turned violent, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the country’s political landscape.
Speaking via a live broadcast on his official Facebook page, President Sall emphasized that, according to the constitution, he would have been eligible to run for a third term despite having already been elected to a second term in 2019. However, he firmly stated that his decision, after careful consideration, is not to seek candidacy in the upcoming election scheduled for February 25, 2024.
Addressing the speculation and commentary surrounding his potential candidacy, Sall unequivocally expressed, “The 2019 term was my second and last term.” Despite acknowledging his constitutional entitlement to run again, he made a definitive choice to step aside and not pursue re-election.
President Sall’s announcement is expected to assuage concerns and allay fears of a potential democratic backslide in Senegal. Rumors of his intention to extend his stay in power have contributed to unrest since 2021, resulting in tragic incidents where lives have been lost. These events have tested Senegal’s longstanding reputation for maintaining peace and stability in a region often plagued by turmoil.
Sall first assumed office in 2012 after emerging victorious in a fiercely contested election against then-President Abdoulaye Wade, whose controversial bid for a third term had sparked violent street demonstrations. Now, with Sall’s commitment to honoring the constitutional term limits, the political climate in Senegal may experience a newfound sense of stability, as attention turns to the upcoming election and the potential candidates vying for the presidency.
Key Highlights
- President Macky Sall of Senegal announces he will not run for a third term in the upcoming 2024 election, clarifying the uncertainty surrounding his political future.
- Despite constitutional provisions that would have allowed his candidacy, Sall affirms that his second term, which began in 2019, will be his last.
- Sall’s decision is expected to alleviate concerns of a potential democratic regression in Senegal and ease tensions following deadly opposition protests.
