By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
Opposition figures and civil society activists in Senegal have begun speaking out against the bid by former president Macky Sall to become Secretary-General of the United Nations, accusing his administration of political repression and financial misconduct during his time in office.
Sall, who led Senegal from 2012 to 2024, has recently been nominated for the global post by Burundi, which currently chairs the African Union. The nomination has triggered sharp criticism from some groups at home, particularly from individuals who say they were victims of state crackdowns during protests that rocked the country in the final years of his presidency.
Speaking at a press conference in Dakar, Pape Abdoulaye Touré of the Families of Martyrs collective accused the former leader of seeking international office to shield himself from accountability.
According to him, Sall “does not deserve to be secretary-general” and should instead answer questions over violence linked to demonstrations during his tenure.
Critics point to protests between 2021 and early 2024, when clashes between security forces and opposition supporters led to dozens of deaths. Independent researchers and journalists estimated that at least 65 people, mostly young protesters, were killed during that period, while officials under the current administration say the death toll may exceed 80.
Members of the ruling camp have also raised concerns about financial management under Sall’s government. A team from the International Monetary Fund confirmed that inaccurate data had been reported on Senegal’s budget deficits and public debt between 2019 and 2023, reinforcing accusations that the scale of the country’s debt had been concealed.
However, not all voices in Senegal oppose the candidacy. Some political groups and prominent figures argue that Sall’s experience on the international stage could enhance the country’s diplomatic influence if he secures the position.
The government of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has stressed that Dakar did not submit the nomination for the UN role. Foreign Minister Cheikh Niang said the state “was not involved in this process”.
Since taking office in April 2024 alongside Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, the new administration has launched investigations into the deadly protests that occurred under Sall’s rule, adding another layer of controversy to the former president’s quest for one of the world’s most influential diplomatic posts.
