Although the final results have not been announced, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, also the candidate supported by current President Macky Sall, has admitted defeat based on preliminary results.
Mr. Ba himself sent his congratulations and also announced Faye's name as the winner. “I wish him much success, for the happiness of the people of Senegal,” he said in a statement released Monday afternoon referring to Mr. Faye as President.
Mr. Bassirou Diomaye Faye spoke at the first press conference after being declared the winner of the 2024 Senegal presidential election. Photo: France24
In his first speech as President-elect late on Monday, Mr Faye - a former tax inspector - promised a new chapter after months of violence and multiple political arrests surrounding election.
Mr Faye, who is backed by prominent opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, has vowed to improve Senegal's control over natural resources and revive the country's economy.
In April last year, Mr Faye was charged with a number of offences. Sonko and Faye went to prison together the following July. Both men were released on March 4 this year after many months in prison, thanks to a political amnesty.
Outgoing President Macky Sall also described the result of the vote as a victory for Senegal. Mr Faye, who celebrated his 44th birthday on Monday, will become the West African country's youngest-ever President.
Quang Anh (according to France 24, New York Times)
