Senegal’s New President
The west African nation of Senegal recently elected its new president, the youngest in the country’s history. 43-year-old Bassirou Diomaye Faye will be leading the nation now, replacing incumbent Macky Sall.
Two Wives or Two First Ladies?
A video apparently showing two wives of Bassirou Diomaye Faye sitting together at an event is going viral on social media, triggering rumours. Truth be told, Faye is a practising Muslim and does indeed have two wives.
- Being married to two wives is a sign of responsibility according to his elder brother Ibrahima Faye.
- Polygamy is common in Senegal, especially among his ethnic group, the Serer.
Family Life
Faye has four children with his first wife. The president-elect married his second wife last year, who lives and works in France.
The Journey to Presidency
Initial results on Tuesday (Mar 26) showed Faye won with at least 54 per cent support. Interestingly, he was released just 10 days ahead of the poll. Prior to becoming the president, Faye had only ever run for mayor of his hometown, Ndiaganiao.
- Faye was sent to jail last year in April over a Facebook post criticising the government of Macky Sall.
- Macky Sall tried to cancel the duo but widespread anger, protests and campaigns failed his efforts.
Political Amnesty
Owing to the increasing pressure and exacerbating frustration among the public, the incumbent president announced political amnesty for the duo on March 14.
Recent Developments
The pair hit the campaign trail together almost immediately as they were released. Sonko named Faye as his proxy in the elections as he was barred from running for office after he was convicted of defamation and of corrupting a minor.
