Just a few months ago, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Senegal’s newly-elected president, was imprisoned and largely unknown outside his opposition party. A dramatic turn of events propelled him to the forefront of Senegalese politics, culminating in a surprising victory on March 24, 2024.
From Prison Cell to Presidential Podium: A Twist of Fate
Faye’s political journey hinges on the circumstances surrounding Ousmane Sonko, the charismatic leader of the Pastef opposition party. Sonko’s arrest in July 2023 on insurrection charges effectively barred him from running for president. This unexpected development created an opening for Faye, Sonko’s trusted lieutenant and Pastef’s secretary general.
Despite facing his own arrest on contempt of court charges, Faye, unlike Sonko, remained eligible to compete in the election. This distinction proved crucial, paving the way for him to take the reins of the Pastef campaign and emerge as Sonko’s successor.
A Trusted Lieutenant Steps Out of the Shadows
Faye’s background stands in stark contrast to Sonko’s fiery persona. An academic high achiever, Faye graduated from law school and earned a master’s degree from Dakar’s Cheikh Anta Diop University. He then went on to become a tax inspector, demonstrating a commitment to public service.
While Sonko’s charisma fueled mass support, particularly among Senegal’s youth, Faye presented a more reserved demeanor. However, Sonko’s endorsement proved instrumental in legitimizing Faye’s candidacy.
In a video message, Sonko acknowledged, “My choice of Diomaye is not a choice from the heart, but from reason. He is competent and has attended the most prestigious school in Senegal.” Sonko further emphasized Faye’s integrity, stating, “No one can say he is not honest. I would even say that he is more honest than me. I entrust the project into his hands.”
Faye’s candidacy gained further momentum with the formation of a broad coalition. Over 100 opposition parties, including prominent figures like former Prime Minister Aminata Toure, rallied behind Faye under the banner “Doimaye mooy Sonko” (“Diomaye is Sonko” in Wolof).
A general amnesty law passed in March 2024, just before the election, secured the release of both Sonko and Faye from prison. Their subsequent campaign rallies drew enthusiastic crowds, highlighting the deep political divisions within Senegal.
Questions Remain as Faye Charts His Course
Faye’s victory has sparked questions about his governing experience. Critics point to his narrow defeat in a local election in 2022 as evidence of his lack of preparedness for national leadership. However, his supporters, like 36-year-old part-time driver Sidy Lamine Badji, remain confident. “He has dignity,” Badji declared. “I believe in his promise and that he will not betray us.”
Faye has remained tight-lipped about Sonko’s potential role in his administration, insisting on his own independence. “Why do we want to focus on just one person in a government when I have a coalition that includes more than 120 people?” he questioned, dismissing concerns about a potential power struggle.
With Senegal’s political landscape transformed, all eyes are now on President-elect Faye. His ability to unite a divided nation, address concerns about youth unemployment, and navigate the complexities of international relations will be key to his success.
Source: Reuters
