Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-01-30 12:47:06
Senegal’s opposition leader Ousmane Sonko has officially announced Bassirou Diomaye Faye as his replacement for the upcoming presidential election on February 25. Sonko made the announcement through a prerecorded video shared on his Facebook page and opposition-affiliated media outlets on January 28, 2024, marking his first public appearance since his arrest in July of the previous year.
In the 44-minute video, recorded while Sonko was under house arrest, he passionately details his strategic considerations, formally endorsing Faye as his chosen successor. Describing Faye as his “little brother” and emphasizing his honesty and brilliance, Sonko entrusts the presidential project into Faye’s capable hands. The decision comes amidst uncertainties regarding Sonko’s own ability to participate actively in the election.
The announcement raises the critical question of whether Faye, who is currently in provisional detention since April on charges including incitement to insurrection, will be granted release to engage in election campaigning. Legal experts are divided on this matter, with some citing the serious charges as a hindrance to provisional release, while others point to constitutional provisions guaranteeing equality among candidates for campaign activities.
Sonko also advocates for the release of Faye in the video, invoking the principle of equal opportunities for candidates. However, no formal application for provisional release has been submitted at this time.
In the meantime, Sonko calls on other presidential candidates affiliated with his party, such as Habib Sy and Cheikh Tidiane Dieye, to maintain their candidacy, contributing to increased airtime for the former Pastef candidate. The outcome of Faye’s provisional release and his ability to campaign in the presidential election remains uncertain, but Sonko’s endorsement establishes Faye as the chosen successor for the upcoming election.
