Diomaye Faye refuses to dismiss Macky Sall’s UN candidacy
The Senegalese head of state maintains support that contrasts with the criticisms from his camp regarding his predecessor's record, turning their rivalry into a common diplomatic front.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye rejected the pessimism surrounding Macky Sall’s candidacy for the position of UN Secretary-General on Thursday, September 24, 2026, in New York. “It still has every chance of success,” the Senegalese president stated in an interview broadcast by France 24 and RFI on the sidelines of the General Assembly.
He argued that predictions remain fragile until the five permanent members of the Security Council reveal their choices. “The game is still open,” he insisted, assuring that Senegal is engaged in discussions with the countries expected to influence the decision.
Diomaye Faye defends this support in the name of African representation. He believes that his predecessor can advocate for reform of the international financial architecture, particularly regarding the debt issue that limits the ambitions of Southern countries.
This diplomatic alliance contrasts with the criticisms directed at Macky Sall’s record by the current government. Reuters reported in July that his administration had been criticized for its management of public finances and political repression, allegations that the former head of state contests.
The candidacy was presented on March 2 by Burundi, which was then holding the rotating presidency of the African Union. Macky Sall was publicly interviewed by the UN on April 22. The Security Council must recommend a name to the General Assembly without a veto from any of its five permanent members. The successor to António Guterres is set to take office on January 1, 2027.
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