Senegal election a rare bright spot in era of democratic backsliding

"On paper, this election was locked in. We had the state institutions, the money, the steamroller of our coalition and a glowing record. Why would he sabotage our candidate, even though he chose him?". 

These were the words of an official close to Macky Sall, the outgoing President of Senegal, in the aftermath of his party’s defeat on March 24th, ending twelve years of consecutive power.  

It’s clear that Alliance Pour la République (APR) and its Sall-endorsed candidate Amadou Ba did not expect defeat. This reflects the pervasive control that the now-departing ‘omnipresident’ once held over Senegal – its economy; its courts; and its media.  

Fears that Sall might permanently entrench his power through Ba makes the victory of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, an ‘anti-corruption crusader’ released from prison just two weeks before polling, even sweeter.  

Faye is not even the most popular opposition leader, indicating the depth of discontent with the Sall regime. That mantle goes to Ousmane Sonko – an ally of Faye and long-time thorn in the government’s side.  

Bogus charges made it impossible for Sonko to run for the presidency, but he will no doubt wield influence in the incoming administration.  

Senegal will be hoping that Faye and Sonko are true to their word, cleaning up the economy and improving democratic processes. They can win again but must do so without falling prey to the corrupting influence of executive power.