Irwan Shah Bin Abdullah
🇸🇳 Africa’s Youngest Elected President Takes Office in Senegal
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Senegal’s opposition leader, who was released from prison just days before the country’s March 24 elections, has been sworn in as the nation’s new president. Faye, 44, claimed victory with 54.28% of the vote, defeating 18 other contenders, including the outgoing ruling party’s candidate, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba.
In his inaugural address in the town of Diamniadio, near Dakar, Faye expressed a commitment to systemic change, promoting a culture of work, ethical management, discipline, and love for the homeland to drive Senegal’s economic and social progress.
Faye’s inauguration was attended by his two wives, several regional presidents and government representatives, and African Union Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat. Shortly after taking office, he appointed Ousmane Sonko, the opposition leader he replaced in the election, as Senegal’s prime minister.
Faye and Sonko, co-founders of the now-defunct Patriots for Work, Ethics, and Fraternity Party (PASTEF), were granted political amnesty less than two weeks before the election, having been imprisoned over alleged defamation and incitement to rebellion. Both campaigned under the banner “Diomaye is Sonko.”
The peaceful transition follows months of political unrest in Senegal, culminating in the postponement of the presidential election originally set for February 25. Outgoing President Macky Sall’s attempt to postpone the vote until December was deemed unconstitutional by Senegal’s highest electoral court after days of deadly protests and arrests.
Faye pledged to strengthen democracy, maintain peace and sovereignty, and promote peace in Senegal and Africa. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by those who fought for Senegalese democracy, pledging to honor their memory and never disappoint the people.