Former Senegalese President Macky Sall has thanked his counterparts from Senegal and Burundi for their support of his bid to become the next United Nations Secretary-General. On September 25, 2026, Sall expressed his appreciation via social media, specifically mentioning Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal and Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi. Sall's reaction followed Diomaye Faye's address to the UN General Assembly in New York on September 24.
Diomaye Faye reaffirmed Senegal's support for Sall's candidacy during his speech at the UN General Assembly. He urged member states to back Sall's bid, emphasizing the need for a Secretary-General who can engage in dialogue with all member states. This endorsement extends Senegal's diplomatic efforts to promote Sall's candidacy to succeed António Guterres. Diomaye Faye also defended the candidacy in an interview with RFI and France 24.
The Burundi government officially presented Macky Sall as its candidate for the UN Secretary-General position on March 2, 2026. This move enabled Sall's candidacy to be formally registered in the selection process for Guterres' successor. On April 22, Sall participated in an interactive dialogue at the UN with other candidates, presenting his bid and responding to questions from delegations.
The selection process for the UN Secretary-General involves the UN Security Council playing a crucial role. According to Article 97 of the UN Charter, the Secretary-General is appointed by the General Assembly on the recommendation of the Security Council. The five permanent members of the Security Council - China, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Russia - each hold veto power.
Macky Sall's discussions with Diomaye Faye about his candidacy took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York. Sall expressed his satisfaction with the meetings, which were held in anticipation of upcoming events. He highlighted the importance of these interactions in advancing his bid for the top UN position.
Évariste Ndayishimiye's support for Macky Sall's candidacy was formally acknowledged by Sall in his message. Ndayishimiye's backing, along with that of Diomaye Faye, underscores the growing international support for Sall's bid. The UN Secretary-General position will become vacant after António Guterres completes his second term.
The next UN Secretary-General must be selected through a rigorous process, culminating in a recommendation from the Security Council and a final appointment by the General Assembly. Macky Sall's candidacy, backed by Senegal and Burundi, will be considered alongside other bids as the UN seeks a leader capable of navigating its complex global landscape.
Key points
- Macky Sall thanks Diomaye Faye and Évariste Ndayishimiye for supporting his UN Secretary-General bid.
- Diomaye Faye urges UN member states to back Sall's candidacy.
- The UN Secretary-General selection process involves a crucial role for the UN Security Council.
