The Dakar Correctional Court has once again postponed its verdict in the high-profile case involving the alleged forgery of Ousmane Sonko‘s signature. Khardiata Tandian, one of the defendants, remains in custody as the judicial process drags on.
Initially scheduled for July 9, 2026, the ruling was deferred for the second time. The tribunal now plans to deliver its decision on July 23, citing the absence of a key figure in the proceedings. According to court officials, the presence of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as a presumed accomplice, is deemed essential before the case can be concluded.
The delay stems from the same issue that caused the first postponement: the need to ensure all involved parties are present. Without Sy‘s testimony, the court cannot finalize its assessment of the evidence, which includes documents and witness accounts.
Defense pushes for provisional release
In light of the repeated delays, the defense team for Khardiata Tandian filed a motion requesting her provisional release. The lawyer argued that the prosecution’s case was already complete, with all procedural documents submitted and the defendant having already been heard by the court. They also emphasized that Tandian has been detained for over a year—a duration that, according to her legal representative, could already cover any potential sentence if she were convicted.
The defense further highlighted the severe social and familial consequences of her prolonged incarceration, pointing out that she is a married mother with a young child. They contended that her continued detention was no longer justified, as there was no risk of witness tampering or interference with the judicial process.
Prosecution opposes release, citing public order concerns
However, the public prosecutor’s office strongly opposed the request, asserting that granting provisional freedom to Tandian would pose a threat to public order. Prosecutors argued that she did not provide sufficient guarantees to ensure her presence throughout the remaining legal proceedings. They also expressed concerns that her release could lead to the obstruction of justice or further complications in the investigation.
After hearing both sides, the court sided with the prosecution’s arguments. The motion for provisional release was denied, leaving Khardiata Tandian in detention until the next hearing on July 23.
Case hinges on the missing accomplice
The outcome of the case now rests heavily on the presence of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy. His absence during earlier proceedings prevented the court from issuing a ruling, and the tribunal has made it clear that his testimony is necessary before delivering a final verdict. Until then, Tandian remains incarcerated, her fate uncertain as the judicial process continues to unfold.
