Opposition Candidate Faye Takes Early Lead in Senegal Presidential Polls
Initial findings from the presidential election in Senegal show that opposition contender Bassirou Diomaye Faye is in the lead, prompting his followers to rejoice in the streets. However, the primary competitor from the governing coalition stated that a second round of voting would be necessary to decide the victor.
After the election on Sunday, results slowly emerged and five out of the 19 candidates in the race released statements, offering congratulations to Faye.
Amadou Ba, the candidate from the governing coalition and a former prime minister, cautioned that it was too early to start celebrating.
“For our part, and considering the feedback of the results from our team of experts, we are certain that, in the worst case scenario, we will go to a run-off,” Ba’s campaign said in a statement.
Millions participated in a calm voting day to choose Senegal’s fifth president after three years of remarkable political unrest, which led to aggressive anti-government demonstrations and increased backing for the opposition.
The potential outcome in question involves the conclusion of an administration headed by departing President Macky Sall, which has advocated for policies favorable to investors but has struggled to alleviate economic challenges in a relatively stable democracy in West Africa, prone to coups.
Voters were presented with 19 options to succeed Sall, who is relinquishing his position following a tumultuous second term characterized by turmoil over the legal pursuit of outspoken opposition figure Ousmane Sonko and suspicions that the president aimed to exceed his constitutional term limit.
EARLY TALLIES
Approximately 7.3 million individuals were enrolled for voting out of a population of roughly 18 million. The turnout stood at approximately 71%, as reported by state television RTS.
Election day ran smoothly with no major incidents reported.
The initial results broadcasted on TV indicated that Faye had secured the most votes, prompting lively street festivities across Dakar, the capital city.
Excited fans congregated in Sonko’s vicinity, celebrating with fireworks, Senegalese flag waving, and the blaring of vuvuzelas.
Faye was declared the winner by at least five opposing candidates, who effectively acknowledged their defeat. Among them was one of the primary rivals, Anta Babacar Ngom, who expressed hopes for Faye’s success as Senegal’s leader in a public statement.
The number of counted polling stations out of the total 15,633 was unclear.
The anticipated deadline for the final provisional outcomes is Tuesday. A follow-up voting round will occur only if no candidate attains the necessary over 50% majority to avoid a runoff.
‘DIOMAYE IS SONKO’
Sonko, who was recently released from jail, was barred from participating in the election due to a defamation conviction. He is supporting Faye, who co-founded their now-defunct Pastef party and was also imprisoned nearly a year ago on various charges, including defamation and contempt of court.
A law granting amnesty was approved earlier this month, resulting in their release just days before the election. They’ve been jointly campaigning under the slogan “Diomaye represents Sonko”. Several notable politicians and opposition contenders have thrown their support behind Faye’s bid for office.
“The population is choosing between continuation and rupture,” Faye said after casting his vote, urging contenders to accept the winner.
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Sall, who was initially elected in 2012, is stepping down from his position following a decline in popularity, which worsened when authorities attempted to delay the election until December. The original date for the election was set for February 25th.
The decision sparked dissatisfaction and fears of excessive authoritarian control, leading Senegal’s Constitutional Council to mandate that the election proceed before Sall’s term expires on April 2.
Faye has pledged to eliminate corruption, reinstate stability, and focus on economic independence, resonating with young urbanites who are disheartened by the dearth of employment opportunities in a nation where 60% of the populace is under 25 years old.
Opposition Candidate Faye Takes Early Lead in Senegal Presidential Polls