Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-03-29 08:57:39
Anti-establishment figure Bassirou Diomaye Faye emerged victorious in the Senegalese presidential election, securing 54.28 per cent of the votes in the first round, according to official provisional results announced on Wednesday. His closest rival, former prime minister Amadou Ba, trailed behind with 35.79 per cent of the votes. Faye’s victory, just 10 days after his release from prison, awaits validation from Senegal’s constitutional body.
At 44 years old, Faye is poised to become the youngest president in Senegal’s history, marking a significant shift from the current political landscape. This election marks the first time an opponent has won in the first round since the country gained independence from France in 1960. Despite being one of 19 candidates on the list, Aliou Mamadou Dia only managed to secure 2.8 per cent of the vote.
The official provisional results confirm Faye’s clear win, with a voter turnout of 61.30 per cent, lower than the previous election in 2019 but higher than in 2012. The announcement paves the way for a smooth transfer of power from outgoing President Macky Sall to his successor. The political crisis triggered by Sall’s election postponement earlier had cast doubts on the transition timeline, but it now appears feasible pending any potential appeals by presidential candidates within 72 hours.
Senegal’s democratic principles and stability are at the forefront as the country prepares for a new administration. International observers have commended the smooth running of the election, highlighting the political and democratic maturity of the Senegalese people. Faye’s promise to restore national sovereignty and implement a left-wing pan-African agenda has resonated with voters, ushering in a potential overhaul of the country’s institutions.
The president-elect has pledged to govern with humility, transparency, and a commitment to fighting corruption at all levels. His agenda includes national reconciliation, institution-building, and addressing the cost of living. Faye aims to reassure foreign partners of Senegal’s continued cooperation and reliability in international relations.
The upcoming transition of power signifies a new chapter in Senegal’s political landscape, with Faye emerging as the first opposition president in the country’s history. His election signals a shift towards progressive policies and governance, promising a transformative era for Senegal. As the fifth president of the West African nation, Faye’s leadership comes at a crucial time for the country and its people.
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