President Macky Sall of Senegal staunchly defends his decision to postpone last month’s elections, despite igniting violent protests throughout the nation.
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, President Sall expressed no remorse, emphasizing that the delay was not unilateral but based on legitimate electoral concerns raised by parliament members.
“I have no apology to make, I have done nothing wrong. I am speaking to you as president of the republic. All the actions that have been taken have been within the framework of the law and regulations,” President Sall affirmed.
The contentious move to postpone the polls, which triggered widespread unrest and political turmoil, was eventually overturned by the country’s highest court. Despite attempts to reschedule the elections to December, they are now slated for Sunday.
President Sall faced criticism for allegedly attempting to prolong his tenure, a charge he vehemently denies. He asserts that even if Sunday’s vote yields no clear winner, he will not extend his stay in office.
Recent developments saw the release of main opposition leader Ousmane Sonko and his party’s presidential candidate, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, from prison under a presidential amnesty. President Sall rebuffs claims that the charges against his rivals were politically motivated.
As President Sall prepares to step down after serving two terms, his ruling coalition party, Benno Bokk Yakaar (BBY), has nominated 62-year-old Amadou Ba as its presidential candidate.