Africa's youngest president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, will take office after Senegal's election.

Senegal Election 2024: Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Historic Victory

Unbelievably, a few months ago, Bassirou Diomaye Faye was virtually unknown. Now, in an incredible turn of events, he is set to become Africa's youngest president. The globe and the country are enthralled with his phenomenal ascent to prominence in Senegalese politics. Let's examine the specifics of this momentous election and its implications for Senegal's future.

The Unexpected Journey

• From jail to victory

Faye’s journey began with an unexpected twist. Months spent in jail alongside his ally and kingmaker, Ousmane Sonko, ended abruptly when they were both released just a week before the presidential election. Now affectionately nicknamed “Mr. Clean,” Faye faces the daunting task of implementing the sweeping reforms he promised during his campaign.

The Man Behind the Title

• Methodical and Modest

At 44 years old, Bassirou Diomaye Faye brings a methodical and modest approach to leadership. His rural upbringing in Ndiaganiao, where he still returns every Sunday to work the land, shapes his perspective. Faye’s deep distrust of Senegal’s elites and establishment politics fuels his commitment to change. 

• A vision for Senegal

Fighting poverty, injustice, and corruption tops Faye’s agenda. During his tenure at the Treasury, he and Sonko established a union task force to tackle graft. But Faye’s vision extends beyond domestic issues. He aims to renegotiate gas, oil, fishing, and defense deals to better serve the Senegalese people. His promise of “sovereignty” and “rupture” signals a departure from the status quo, especially in ties with France.

Key Priorities

• Economic Reforms and Judicial Independence

As Senegal’s president-elect, Faye faces critical challenges. Strengthening judicial independence and creating jobs for the country’s large young population are high on his agenda. These priorities were often overlooked during outgoing President Macky Sall’s tenure, and Faye aims to rectify that.

• A New Currency

One of Faye’s boldest moves is dropping the much-criticized CFA franc currency, which has long been pegged to the euro and backed by former colonial power France. He envisions replacing it with a new Senegalese or regional West African currency. While ambitious, this transition won’t be without hurdles.

Unprecedented Support

• Political heavyweights rally behind Faye

Former President Abdoulaye Wade’s endorsement just days before the election added weight to Faye’s campaign. It’s a remarkable turnaround for a man who spent the last 11 months in prison on charges of insurrection. His emergence as the “Plan B” candidate, replacing the charismatic Ousmane Sonko, underscores his integrity and determination.

A bright future for Senegal

As Bassirou Diomaye Faye prepares to take office, Senegal stands at a historic crossroads. His victory represents not only a transfer of power but also a testament to the resilience of Senegal’s democracy. The world watches, hopeful for a peaceful transition and a brighter future under Africa’s youngest president.

In the coming days, Faye will face the reality of governing, balancing ambition with practicality. Senegal’s destiny rests in his hands, and the nation eagerly awaits the impact of his leadership.

From jailed unknowns to Africa’s youngest president, the Senegal election result: Bassirou Diomaye Faye to become Africa’s youngest president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, close to Ousmane Sonko, will become the youngest president of Senegal.