Another postponement has been added to the high-profile case involving the alleged falsification of Ousmane Sonko’s signature. Khardiata Tandian, who remains in detention, is still awaiting a ruling from the Dakar Criminal Court, originally scheduled for July 9, 2026. The presiding judge has once again deferred the verdict, this time to July 23, citing the need to secure the presence of an additional individual connected to the proceedings.
Missing witness delays justice in falsified signature case
The court’s decision hinges on the appearance of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, described in court documents as Tandian’s alleged accomplice. Sy was absent during the initial proceedings, and his presence is deemed essential before the tribunal can finalize its ruling. This marks the second delay in the case, following an earlier postponement for the same reason.
Defense pushes for provisional release while awaiting verdict
With the new hearing date set for July 23, Khardiata Tandian’s legal team has seized the opportunity to file a request for her provisional release. The defense argues that all procedural documents have already been submitted, making continued detention unnecessary. They further contend that releasing Tandian poses no risk of witness tampering or interference with the judicial process, as she has already been questioned by the court.
The defense highlighted that Tandian, a married mother of one, has been incarcerated for over a year. They emphasized that the time already served could potentially cover any sentence she might receive, while also stressing the severe social and familial consequences of her prolonged detention.
Prosecution opposes release, citing public order concerns
The public prosecutor strongly opposed the defense’s motion, arguing that granting provisional release could disrupt public order. The prosecution maintained that Tandian does not provide sufficient guarantees to ensure her continued presence throughout the trial, thus justifying her continued detention.
The tribunal ultimately sided with the prosecution, rejecting the request for provisional release. Khardiata Tandian will remain in prison until the next hearing on July 23, when the court will reconsider her case alongside the ongoing proceedings involving her alleged accomplice.
Case hangs in balance until missing defendant appears
The outcome of this case now rests on the appearance of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy. His absence has already derailed earlier attempts to conclude the matter, and the tribunal has made it clear that a final decision cannot be rendered without his testimony. Until then, Khardiata Tandian will continue to await justice behind bars, with her fate sealed for now.
