After settling in Morocco following his departure from office in March 2024, former Senegalese President Macky Sall will return to Dakar on July 17 for a meeting with current Head of State Bassirou Diomaye Faye. According to a statement released by Sall, this visit is part of his campaign for the position of United Nations Secretary-General.
“As part of the consultations and visits I have undertaken regarding my candidacy for the role of Secretary-General of the United Nations, I will travel to Senegal on Friday, July 17, 2026. I extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye for this opportunity. I also express heartfelt thanks to the people of Senegal for their unwavering support and encouragement since the announcement of my candidacy,” Sall stated.
Sall’s arrival in Dakar and his upcoming meeting with President Faye have already sparked debate and criticism within political circles, particularly among members of the Pastef party led by Ousmane Sonko. Some activists argue that hosting Sall would legitimize the pre-election violence and governance failures in economic and financial management that marked his tenure. It is worth noting that Sall’s U.N. candidacy has not been officially endorsed by Senegal but rather by Burundi.
Macky Sall’s political career and key roles
Macky Sall served as President of Senegal from 2012 to 2024, succeeding his political mentor, Abdoulaye Wade. His presidential journey began with his election following a stint as President of the National Assembly. Before ascending to the presidency, he held the position of Prime Minister in 2004, succeeding Idrissa Seck.
Sall’s political career also includes significant ministerial roles, such as serving as Minister of Mines, Energy, and Hydraulics from May 2001 to November 2002. He later held the same portfolio as Minister of State from November 2002 to August 2003. During the period from August 2003 to April 2004, he served as Minister of State for the Interior and Local Communities, acting as government spokesperson. Additionally, he held the position of Managing Director of PETROSEN, Senegal’s national oil company.
International engagements post-presidency
Since relocating to Marrakech after leaving office, Macky Sall has remained highly active on the global stage. He has participated in numerous international summits and meetings, engaging in dialogues and consultations with world leaders to strengthen Senegal’s diplomatic presence.
