The Dakar Magistrates’ Court has deferred the verdict in the forged signature case involving former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and his associate Khardiata Tandian until July 23, 2026. Originally scheduled for July 9, 2026, the hearing was postponed due to the absence of Cherif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as Tandian’s alleged accomplice.
The court also rejected Tandian’s application for provisional release, despite her lawyer’s arguments that she met all necessary conditions. The defense emphasized her prolonged pre-trial detention of over a year, her status as a married mother of one child, and the possibility that her time served might already cover potential penalties. They warned that further incarceration would severely destabilize her personal and social life.
The prosecution, however, strongly opposed her release. They argued that granting bail could disrupt public order and that Tandian did not provide sufficient assurances of appearing for trial. The defense countered that there was no risk of witness tampering, as Tandian had already testified in court. Ultimately, the tribunal sided with the prosecution, ordering her continued detention pending the case’s resolution.
