Sall on Monday, assured Senegalese he’ll not offer himself as a candidate in the 2024 presidential election
By Kehinde Okeowo
President Bola Tinubu has applauded his Senegalese counterpart, Macky Sall after he decided not to seek a third term in office at the end of his tenure in 2024.
The Nigerian president’s position was made known on Friday by his Special Adviser, Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, Dele Alake.
Senegal’s constitution was amended in 2016 but it still provides for a maximum of two terms, however, Sall’s supporters argued that he is not bound by the law since his first term was before the amendment.
There had been protests in the country considered one of the most stable democracies in Africa in the past few weeks following speculation that the president would seek a third term.
But on Monday, Sall assured citizens of the country that he will not offer himself as a candidate for the February 25, 2024, presidential election.
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Speaking on the development, Tinubu said the decision by the Senegalese president was in the best interest of his country and the peace and stability of the West African region.
He also described the decision as heart-warming, labelling him a “Democrat”.
Tinubu said: “It has brought great joy and relief. As a Democrat, I must commend my brother for his statesmanship.
“With this singular decision, President Sall chose the stability, security and economic well-being of his people over and above narrow personal interest.
“The impact of this important decision will be felt beyond the shores and borders of Senegal and across our West African sub-region.
He went on to say Sall has demonstrated that leadership is about serving the people by quitting at the right time.
“By his example, democracy and respect for people power will take stronger roots in Africa and will continue to flourish,” Tinubu added.