Senegal’s ex-prime Minister, Amadou Ba, has acknowledged defeat in the presidential race to opposition candidate Diomaye Faye following the preliminary vote results.
Ba congratulated Faye and wished him well in his future endeavours.
Faye’s anticipated win comes amid the youth’s growing dissatisfaction with high unemployment rates and governance issues in Senegal. He has pledged to guard the nation against corruption and foreign influence, notably from France, its former coloniser.
Faye had the support of popular opposition figure Ousmane Sonko. Sonko was disqualified from the race due to his conviction, but he backed Faye to run in his place.
There has been no response from Faye’s camp yet. The election, which took place on Sunday, was marked by a peaceful and significant voter turnout after preceding months of political tension and protests. These protests had been triggered by President Macky Sall’s failed attempt to delay the election. The unrest led to several deaths and numerous arrests.
Early counts show a strong lead for Faye among voters. Official results are expected to be announced later in the week.
Meanwhile, celebrations broke out in Senegal’s capital on Sunday as Faye’s supporters eagerly awaited the confirmation of his victory.
Over 7 million citizens were eligible to vote in this election, marking the country’s fourth democratic power transition since its independence from France over 60 years ago.
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