The former President of Senegal, Macky Sall, will make a significant return to Dakar on July 17, 2026, for a high-stakes meeting with the current Head of State, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
The visit comes as Macky Sall continues his diplomatic outreach in support of his candidacy for the position of United Nations Secretary-General. In a statement shared on his official channels, he expressed gratitude to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye for the opportunity to engage in discussions and extended his appreciation to the Senegalese people for their unwavering support since his announcement.
His upcoming trip has already sparked intense debate within Senegal’s political landscape. Critics, particularly from the Pastef party led by Ousmane Sonko, argue that welcoming Macky Sall could be seen as an endorsement of the political turbulence and economic mismanagement that marked his tenure. Notably, his UN candidacy was not officially endorsed by Senegal but by Burundi, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
a political legacy under scrutiny
Macky Sall served as Senegal’s President from 2012 to 2024, succeeding his political mentor, Abdoulaye Wade. Before ascending to the presidency, he held key roles, including President of the National Assembly and Prime Minister. His career also includes serving as Minister of Mines, Energy, and Hydraulics, as well as Minister of the Interior and Government Spokesperson. Additionally, he was the Director-General of PETROSEN, Senegal’s national petroleum company.
post-presidency: a global diplomatic push
Since leaving office in March 2024 and relocating to Marrakech, Macky Sall has maintained a high-profile presence on the international stage. He has actively participated in global summits and high-level meetings, engaging with world leaders to strengthen his bid for the UN position. His recent travels reflect a strategic effort to consolidate support for his candidacy ahead of the vote.
