Bassirou Diomaye Faye, a leading opposition figure, has surged ahead in Senegal’s presidential election, with several rivals conceding defeat. This comes after a peaceful vote on Sunday that saw millions participate, marking a potential end to a period of turbulence under President Macky Sall.
Faye, 44, a member of the Pastef party previously led by disqualified candidate Ousmane Sonko, was himself recently released from jail. Early results showed him leading the pack, sparking jubilant celebrations in the capital Dakar. Supporters waved flags, set off fireworks, and honked vuvuzelas in a display of elation.
While Faye enjoys a lead and the backing of prominent opposition figures, the ruling coalition’s Amadou Ba refuses to concede. Ba, 62, a former prime minister, insists his camp’s analysis suggests a run-off is likely.
The high-stakes election comes after a tumultuous three years marked by protests against President Sall’s government. Sall, who was ineligible to run for a third term, chose Ba as his party’s candidate. Sonko, a popular opposition leader, was disqualified due to a defamation conviction.
Faye and Sonko campaigned together under the slogan “Diomaye is Sonko,” highlighting their close alliance. An amnesty law passed just days before the vote facilitated their release from jail.
Voters faced a crowded field of 19 candidates. With several conceding and early results favoring Faye, Senegal waits with bated breath for final results expected by Tuesday. These results will determine if the nation witnesses a decisive victory for Faye or heads towards a run-off vote.
This election holds immense significance for Senegal’s future. As Faye himself stated, “The population is choosing between continuation and rupture.” With a potential change in leadership looming, all eyes are on the final results and the path Senegal chooses to embark on.
Evelyn N contributed to this report.
