The anticipated visit has reignited fierce debates across the nation, with citizens and activists demanding accountability for the casualties and arrests during the 2021-2024 protest crackdowns. Boubacar Sèye, a prominent activist, condemned the timing of the visit, calling it “an affront to justice.”

“This marks the return of a leader whose tenure is still synonymous with one of the darkest chapters in recent history,” he emphasized, highlighting the dozens of deaths and political detainees from that era.

Divided reactions across the political spectrum

Even within the government coalition, voices of criticism emerged. Deputy Guy Marius Sagna vehemently opposed the visit, stating, “Welcoming Macky Sall is an insult to the victims and their families.”

In contrast, members of his former party, the Alliance for the Republic (APR), are mobilizing to welcome him with large-scale demonstrations. The party has called on supporters to gather at the airport and other key locations in Dakar, with online campaigns urging a strong turnout.

Macky Sall, who has announced plans to depart “immediately” after his meeting with President Faye, remains a polarizing figure as his potential candidacy for United Nations Secretary-General gains traction.

The Burundi presidency, currently holding the African Union’s rotating leadership, has endorsed his bid, sidestepping Senegal’s official stance.

Government’s stance remains neutral

While the presidency has refrained from commenting, Defense Minister Yankhoba Diémé dismissed concerns, asserting that Sall’s visit is a “routine return” to his home country. He underscored that Sall “faces no legal proceedings or convictions,” adding that his presence should not be politicized.