The former President of Senegal, Macky Sall, is set to arrive in Dakar this Friday for a brief visit. Two years after leaving office, his return to the capital comes with a notable agenda: a meeting with current President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

An unexpected visit and diplomatic stakes

Macky Sall, who served as President from 2012 to 2024, remains a prominent figure in Senegalese politics. His visit follows his announcement as a candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations, a role currently held by António Guterres. However, Sall’s candidacy still lacks formal endorsement from Senegal, despite his official application submitted in February. As of March, Dakar had stated it had neither backed nor promoted his candidacy.

A shifting political landscape

The timing of this meeting is particularly significant given the evolving political climate in Senegal. The relationship between President Faye and his former Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has become increasingly strained, adding complexity to the nation’s internal dynamics. Additionally, calls for accountability over alleged human rights violations during Sall’s presidency have grown louder, further shaping the backdrop of this encounter.

As Sall navigates his post-presidency ambitions, the outcome of this meeting could influence not only his UN bid but also Senegal’s stance on regional and international matters. The nation’s response to his candidacy may hinge on the discussions held during this visit.