President Bola Tinubu, serving as the current Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has expressed his enthusiasm over the recent successful presidential election in Senegal and the general elections in Liberia.
These events, he noted, significantly contribute to the promotion of democracy within the West African region.
In a statement titled ‘President Tinubu congratulates President-elect Bassirou Dionaye Faye and the people of the Republic of Senegal,’ released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu extended his congratulations to Bassirou Faye on his election as the President of Senegal. He also commended the outgoing President Macky Sall for ensuring a peaceful and transparent election process.
Bassirou Faye’s victory in the presidential election, held on March 24, 2024, marked a historic moment for Senegal, with Faye securing approximately 53.7% of the votes, according to preliminary results. The election, which saw a voter turnout of over 61%, is notable for being the first in which a sitting president did not contest, following the introduction of term limits.
Amadou Ba, the former Prime Minister and candidate of the ruling coalition, conceded defeat early, acknowledging Faye’s lead. Faye, a protégé of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, has promised to govern with humility, combat corruption, and safeguard Senegal from foreign interference.
President Tinubu hailed the election’s success as a testament to the deep roots of democracy in West Africa, underscoring the importance of good governance, justice, and fairness in strengthening these democratic foundations. He views the electoral outcomes in Senegal and the earlier elections in Liberia as affirmations of ECOWAS’s commitment to fostering peace, constitutional order, and regional cooperation.
As ECOWAS Chairman, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Senegal and the broader West African community, celebrating the strides made towards democratic consolidation in the region.
