The return of Macky Sall, nearly two and a half years after leaving office in April 2024, is stirring deep emotions across Senegal. Critics argue that his presence in Dakar represents an affront to victims’ families and a failure to address the bloodshed that marked his final years in power.

Boubacar Sèye, a spokesperson for a coalition of victims’ associations, described the visit as “an affront to justice”. “This is a moment that forces us to confront one of the darkest chapters in our recent history,” he stated. “Scores of families still mourn loved ones lost during protests that were met with excessive force. We demand truth and accountability.”

Divided voices in a polarized climate

The political divide is stark. While some see the meeting as a normal transition, others view it as an insult. Deputy Guy Marius Sagna, a lawmaker from the ruling coalition, minced no words: “Allowing Macky Sall to walk freely in Dakar is an insult to every family that lost someone and to every political prisoner still behind bars.”

On the other side, supporters of the former president are mobilizing. His party, the Alliance for the Republic (APR), has called for large-scale rallies in Dakar ahead of his arrival. On social media, Sall announced that he would depart “immediately” after the meeting with President Faye.

A backdrop of international ambitions

The timing of the visit is no coincidence. Reports have emerged that Macky Sall is seeking the position of United Nations Secretary-General, with backing from Burundi — currently chairing the African Union — rather than Senegal itself.

As for the government’s stance, officials have remained tight-lipped. Defense Minister Yankhoba Diémé offered a measured response, calling the visit “a routine return to his home country”. He emphasized that Sall “faces no charges, no pending trials, and no convictions.”