Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has officially endorsed his predecessor, Macky Sall, for the United Nations secretary-general position.
The surprising political alliance emerged following a private meeting between the two leaders at the presidential palace on Friday.
This crucial diplomatic backing marks a dramatic U-turn for Faye, whose administration previously heavily criticized Sall’s political record.
Sall, who governed Senegal from 2012 to 2024, now stands as one of five candidates contesting the global post.
Analysts suggest Faye is strategically seeking new coalitions to fortify his presidency ahead of upcoming domestic legislative elections.
However, the decision has ignited fierce backlash from local civil society groups and the ruling Pastef party members.
Victims of Sall’s previous administration argue that the endorsement effectively pardons past state repression and deadly political crackdowns.
Critics also warn that Sall might be leveraging the international stage to orchestrate a future political comeback in Senegal.
Faye has nevertheless instructed his government to fully mobilize diplomatic support for Sall’s upcoming United Nations leadership campaign.