The president of Senegal, Macky Sall, has declared that he will not run for reelection when his tenure ends the next month.
On July 3, 2023, the long-awaited declaration was delivered in a speech to the nation, putting an end to rumours that he intended to seek an unpopular third term.
“My dear fellow citizens, my decision after long consideration is to not be a candidate in the election on February 25, 2024. Senegal is more than me, and is full of capable leaders for the country’s development,” he said in French.
Recent violent protests that resulted in the loss of life and destruction of property were sparked by news that he intended to run for office as well as the detention of Ousmane Sonko, a crucial opposition candidate.
Mahamadou Issoufou, a former president of Niger, responded to Sall’s declaration by tweeting: “The President, Macky Sall, just demonstrated remarkable political savvy. Senegal continues to be a torchbearer whose flame illuminates our continent.
The United Nations Secretary General tweeted: “I would like to express my deep appreciation for President Macky Sall and the statesmanship he has shown. His decision represents a very important example for his country and the world.”
