Senegal: Diomaye–Macky meeting fuels political debate beyond UN bid

Speaking to RFI, political scientist Moussa Diaw, professor emeritus at Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis, described the meeting as a surprise, noting that President Diomaye had previously distanced himself from Macky Sall’s UN bid. According to Diaw, the encounter may go beyond international diplomacy and reflect shifting political dynamics within Senegal.

Potential political realignment

The analyst believes President Diomaye is currently focused on building his own political party, expected to be launched on August 8, and could be looking to forge new alliances ahead of future elections.

Diaw suggested that discussions with Macky Sall could pave the way for closer ties between Diomaye’s emerging political movement and the Alliance for the Republic (APR), the party still led by the former president.

For Macky Sall, the visit could also help revive the influence of the APR, which has struggled since losing power in 2024 and has lacked a strong leadership presence while Sall has been living in Morocco.

Sonko rivalry remains in the background

The meeting comes as tensions continue between President Diomaye and National Assembly Speaker Ousmane Sonko, leader of the ruling Pastef party.

Despite speculation, Diaw believes Sonko’s political standing remains solid, pointing to his continued popularity among young supporters and recent large-scale mobilization efforts during party activities.

Victims’ families oppose the visit

The announcement of Macky Sall’s return has also drawn criticism from organizations representing victims of the political unrest that marked his final years in office.

Families of those killed or injured during protests between 2021 and 2024 argue that justice has yet to be served and warn against prioritizing diplomatic considerations over accountability.

Diaw acknowledged their concerns, describing them as « a cry of sorrow and frustration » from families who continue to await judicial action over the violence that occurred during the former president’s tenure.

As Macky Sall pursues international support for his UN candidacy, his brief return to Dakar highlights the unresolved political and judicial questions that continue to shape Senegal’s domestic landscape.