Senegal commended for its enduring democracy
April 2, 2024

Changing of the guard: New Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye (left) and ex-President Macky Sall (right)
THE new of President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, was sworn in today in the new city of Diamniadio, about 20 miles from Dakar. Faye, at 44, is Africa’s youngest president, and he leads a country that is the only one in West Africa that has never experienced a military coup.
By winning more than 54 per cent of the vote in the first round, Faye becomes the country’s fifth president.
In this light, the Senegalese people have received many commendations for ensuring that the democratic process in country remains intact.
The Pan-African Alliance for Transparency and the Rule of Law (PATROL-AFRICA) was one of the many organisations around that world that have sent messages of congratulations to the new leader and Senegalese people.
Part of the statement reads:
“PATROL-Africa would also like to express its appreciation and warmest congratulations to the Senegalese people, who have, once again, demonstrated that the right to vote – and to have their vote counted – remains an indispensable hallmark of freedom and democracy.
“The recently concluded election underscores the critical importance of strong democratic institutions in safeguarding the integrity and fairness of electoral processes. At the forefront of this commitment to democracy stands the Constitutional Council.
“Through its rigorous oversight and impartial adjudication, it has reaffirmed the importance of an independent judiciary in safeguarding the rule of law in a democratic society. It has set an example for the continent of Africa and the world at large.
“On 29th March, the highest court in Senegal reaffirmed the electoral victory of Bassirou Diomaye Faye. PATROL-AFRICA is pleased that no objections were raised by the other candidates in this regard. It therefore joins the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, in welcoming the unanimous acceptance of the result. “Despite the tumultuous period leading up to the election, it is evident that this is a victory for the Senegalese people and the democratic values they hold dear.
“Once again, the people of Senegal and democratic institutions that underpin the rule of law in the country have set an excellent example, not only for the African continent but also for other countries around the world to emulate.
“PATROL-AFRICA, would like to once again congratulate the outgoing President of the Republic, H.E Macky Sall, for abiding by the outcome of the election and respecting the will of the people and the authority of the supreme law of the land. By extending his congratulations and best wishes to the incoming administration of Mr. Diomaye Faye, Mr. Macky Sall has ultimately acted to strengthen democracy in the country, underpinned by the peaceful transition of power and stability.
“PATROL-AFRICA salutes all those in Senegal and abroad, electoral commission and observers included, who participated in this peaceful electoral process that throws a positive light on Africa in an era where democratic traditions are under serious threats.”
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