The planned encounter between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his predecessor Macky Sall in Senegal has ignited a wave of indignation, particularly among the families of those who suffered political repression during Sall’s time in power. These families are vocal in their condemnation, viewing the visit as a profound affront while they continue their arduous quest for justice and reparations.

Why has this particular meeting sparked such intense controversy? What potential ramifications could this high-profile interaction have on the dynamic landscape of Senegalese politics? To address these pressing questions, we turn to political analyst Assane Samb. He offers his initial perspective on the broader implications of this meeting within Senegal’s current political environment.

Interview with Assane Samb

Assane Samb: This meeting, despite some vocal dissent, was largely anticipated.

With Macky Sall now a candidate for the position of UN Secretary-General, it would be unthinkable for his bid not to receive backing from various African nations, such as Burundi. The involvement of the President of China also played a crucial role in this context, leading to a softening of previous stances.

DW: And why does this visit provoke such strong reactions, particularly from victims’ associations and a segment of civil society?

This is intrinsically linked to the specific period we experienced between 2021 and 2024. During that time, there were intense confrontations in the streets between protestors and security forces. Essentially, the populace was driven by a revolutionary fervor.

DW: Many organizations, including Amnesty, hold the former President accountable, as he was responsible for public security and the exercise of freedoms, notably the right to protest. Mr. Samb, is President Faye facing a dilemma today between the diplomatic imperatives of the state and the justice expectations of his political base?

When he was still associated with Pastef, he genuinely hesitated to officially endorse Macky Sall. Now that he has severed those ties, he no longer feels constrained. That is no longer the case.

DW: To what extent might Macky Sall’s candidacy for UN Secretary-General further polarize the political debate in Senegal?

In reality, the calculations extend beyond the victims, even though we speak of martyrs and their suffering. What’s happening is that people genuinely fear Macky Sall’s potential return, driven by underlying political considerations.

DW: What could be the effects of this meeting, both on the national reconciliation process and on Senegal’s international image?

On the international stage, the meeting will undoubtedly be widely commended, particularly by other African heads of state. Domestically, however, it is clear that the political landscape’s existing bipolarization will only intensify.