Macky Sall: Senegalese Constitutional Crisis Fuels Presidential Succession Speculation

• A severe crisis has been unfolding in Senegal due to a power struggle between the Legislative and Executive branches.
• Macky Sall's name has regained prominence since his withdrawal from national politics, with many believing he is the only one who can extricate the nation from its predicament.
• His campaign for UN Secretary-General may be aimed more at influencing public opinion in Senegal than securing votes from UN member states.
• Support from African civil society organizations could carry significant weight in the final selection process.
• The outcome of the election is far from certain, with much still to happen before December 31.

Many Senegalese from various backgrounds are beginning to believe that only Macky Sall can extricate the nation from its predicament.

A severe crisis has been unfolding in Senegal, with the Legislative and Executive branches engaging in a bitter power struggle. The Constitutional Council is increasingly being drawn into the fray, as no legislation or budgetary measures can progress due to the impasse between the two branches. Meanwhile, the economic crisis that struck on September 26, 2024, shows no signs of abating, leaving Senegalese citizens disillusioned and looking forward to February 2029 with growing anticipation.

The name of Macky Sall has regained prominence since his withdrawal from national politics. Despite his successors' missteps, the former president's reputation has endured, thanks in part to their own blunders. The Sonko-Diomaye duo has squandered the goodwill it had accumulated during its time in opposition, reducing the previous administration to a scapegoat for all the country's woes.

The government's initial policies aimed to weaken the previous regime, but this strategy ultimately paralyzed the country and the highest echelons of power. As a result, many Senegalese from various backgrounds are beginning to believe that only Macky Sall can extricate the nation from its predicament.

Macky Sall's potential return to Senegalese politics is intricately linked with his campaign for the United Nations Secretary-General position. As a candidate, he has been traveling abroad and meeting with foreign leaders, creating an impression that his efforts are aimed more at influencing public opinion in Senegal than securing votes from UN member states.

The distinction awarded to him by a Congolese university may have generated some publicity, but it is unlikely to sway the voting members of the Security Council. In contrast, support from African civil society organizations could carry significant weight in the final selection process, as these groups have influence over the choice of UN Secretary-General through their accreditation with the Economic and Social Council.

While Macky Sall appears to be a strong contender, the outcome is far from certain, as demonstrated by the indicative vote following the debate among the six candidates. Although he was not the top performer in terms of positive votes, he excelled in securing support from Security Council members, whose positions are crucial in determining the final choice.

However, much can still happen between now and December 31, when the elected candidate will be announced. The unpredictable nature of Donald Trump's mood swings, combined with his veto power and influential voice, means that nothing can be taken for granted.

The unfolding situation in Senegal has significant implications for Africa's relations with global institutions. Macky Sall's potential return to politics could have far-reaching consequences for the country and its business operations, investments, or compliance with international regulations.

Lawyers should be aware of these developments and their potential impact on clients' interests. The outcome of the UN Secretary-General election may also influence Africa's position within global institutions, making it essential to monitor this situation closely.

Lawyers should watch for potential changes in the political landscape of Senegal and how it may impact business operations, investments, or compliance with international regulations. The outcome of the UN Secretary-General election could have significant implications for Africa's relations with global institutions.

Source: Original reporting via Diomaye, Sonko et l'ombre de Macky Sall