Bassirou Diomaye Faye assumes office as Senegal’s fifth President, marking a historic moment as the youngest leader at 44 years old.
In a ceremony witnessed by African dignitaries in Diamniadio, near Dakar, Faye took the presidential oath, pledging allegiance to the Senegalese nation and promising to uphold the Constitution and laws, defend territorial integrity, and champion African unity.
The official transition of power from outgoing President Macky Sall will occur at the presidential palace in Dakar.
“Before God and the Senegalese nation, I swear to faithfully fulfil the office of President of the Republic of Senegal,” Faye said before the gathered officials.
He also vowed to “scrupulously observe the provisions of the Constitution and the laws” and to defend “the integrity of the territory and national independence, and to spare no effort to achieve African unity”.
Faye’s ascension follows a political journey that saw him released from prison just days before the March 24 presidential election, as part of a broader amnesty initiative by Sall.
His campaign, initiated during detention, gained momentum with a platform focused on national reconciliation, addressing the cost of living, and combating corruption.
As the first openly polygamous president, Faye, a former tax inspector, aims to steer Senegal toward sovereignty over key sectors like oil, gas, and fishing.
He advocates for Senegal’s departure from the regional CFA franc and emphasizes agricultural investment for food security.
Despite these reforms, Faye assures investors of Senegal’s commitment to maintaining friendly and cooperative relations.
His victory is celebrated globally, heralding a new era in Senegalese democracy following years of instability.
