Senegal has formally distanced itself from a reported bid by former President Macky Sall to become the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, despite apparent backing from the African Union.
In a note dated 27 March 2026, Senegal’s Permanent Mission to the AU stated that the government “has at no stage endorsed” Sall’s candidacy and was not involved in promoting it.
The clarification came a day after an AU draft decision expressed support for Sall’s bid, citing his leadership experience and calling for continental solidarity.
The development highlights emerging diplomatic tensions ahead of the race to succeed António Guterres, whose tenure ends in December 2026.
Senegal’s Foreign Minister also disclosed that “he was not consulted on the matter, underscoring a disconnect between the AU’s position and Dakar’s official stance.”
Sall, who served as president from 2012 to 2024, has faced criticism at home since leaving office. His administration was accused of suppressing opposition protests in its final years, resulting in multiple fatalities.
The current government has also alleged that his administration understated the scale of Senegal’s public debt. An assessment by the International Monetary Fund found discrepancies in disclosures relating to budget deficits and public debt between 2019 and 2023.
The contest for the UN’s top job is expected to be competitive, with figures such as Michelle Bachelet, Rafael Grossi, and Rebeca Grynspan also mentioned, although support for candidates is said to be evolving.
Under the selection process, the UN Security Council will recommend a candidate before the General Assembly votes, with deliberations expected to begin from 20 April.
AFRICA NEWS