The Dakar criminal court has postponed its verdict in the forged signature case against Khardiata Tandian, linked to allegations of falsifying the signature of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. Initially scheduled for July 9, 2026, the ruling has been deferred to July 23, 2026 due to the absence of Cherif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as the alleged accomplice in the case.

Court rejects bail request despite lengthy pre-trial detention

During the hearing, the defense team argued vigorously for Khardiata Tandian’s release on bail, emphasizing that she has been held in pre-trial detention for over a year. They pointed out that she is married with a child and highlighted that the time already served could potentially cover the maximum sentence she might face. Additionally, they warned that further incarceration would severely disrupt her personal and family life.

However, the prosecution strongly opposed the request, asserting that granting bail could pose a threat to public order and that the defendant did not provide sufficient guarantees to ensure her presence at future court proceedings. Though the defense countered that no risk of witness intimidation existed—since Tandian had already testified—the court ultimately sided with the prosecution’s position. As a result, she remains in detention pending the next court session.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter