Rumors suggesting that former President Macky Sall sought a meeting with his successor, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, in Paris have been firmly denied by the Alliance for the Republic (APR).
The party clarified that Sall’s visit to France is part of a long-standing international program and not linked to national political discussions.
In a statement, the APR’s National Executive Secretariat stressed that Macky Sall “has never sought” to meet the current head of state. His agenda, the party said, is exclusively devoted to international meetings planned since the beginning of the year.
“This trip is part of a series of journeys by Senegalese figures to consolidate their networks abroad,” a source close to the party explained. “It is a diplomatic and economic programme, not a political initiative at home.”
The clarification comes amid speculation that the trip could signal attempts to bridge relations between the current government and opposition forces.
Since leaving office in March 2024 following the election of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Macky Sall has been residing in Morocco, focusing on international engagements. This choice of residence abroad frequently fuels debate over his continuing influence and political intentions.
Despite Sall’s absence from Senegal, the APR continues to play an active role in national politics.
The party positions itself as an opposition force, defending the legacy of its founder while navigating challenges faced by some of its members.
Legal proceedings involving figures close to Sall have at times cast a shadow over the party, raising questions about its internal cohesion.
The APR’s statement aims to curb political interpretations and emphasizes that the former president’s visit abroad is strictly part of an international agenda.
Party officials reiterated that there is no ongoing dialogue or planned meeting with the current government during this trip.
This announcement underscores the sensitivity of political communication in Senegal, where foreign trips by former leaders often trigger speculation about domestic political maneuvers.
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