Senegalese Former President Macky Sall Abandons UN Secretary‑General Bid Amid Regional Preference Shift
Former Senegalese President Macky Sall announced on Saturday, October 17, 2026, his withdrawal of his candidacy for the position of Secretary‑General of the United Nations.
In a statement released from Marrakech, the former head of state said he seeks to promote an international consensus. This departure follows the advisory vote held on October 16, 2026, at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
He explained that his decision stems from a profound sense of institutional responsibility, noting that prior consultations and indicative votes within the Security Council already indicated a preference for a candidate from the Latin America and Caribbean region—possibly a woman.
Macky Sall expressed his gratitude to the heads of state who supported his mission, singling out the backing of Évastine Ndayishimiye and assistance from President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as well as the collaborative effort of key Security Council members.
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The continent, Sall emphasized, must continue to amplify its voice and advocate for greater equitable representation within international bodies while strengthening its influence in global governance.
He concluded his remarks by extending his best wishes to the individual who will eventually assume the role formerly held by António Guterres.
The former president invites readers to read the full analysis in French below.
