Former Senegalese President Macky Sall took his global campaign to the United Nations headquarters in New York, presenting his vision for a reformed and modernized organization during a high-profile candidate town hall.
Addressing member states and civil society representatives, Sall outlined his strategy to revitalize the UN’s core pillars of international peace, human rights, and sustainable development. The event represents a critical milestone in the race to succeed António Guterres, whose term as UN Secretary-General concludes at the end of December 2026.
Positioning himself as a seasoned statesman capable of navigating complex global dynamics, Sall highlighted his extensive background in national governance, continental leadership, and international diplomacy. He emphasized that his executive experience in Senegal and active engagement across African and global platforms equip him with the necessary perspective to tackle modern geopolitical challenges. Hosted by the Office of the President of the UN General Assembly, the interactive public dialogue was designed to ensure greater transparency and inclusivity in evaluating leadership candidates.
Sall’s campaign gained significant momentum following official endorsement from the Senegalese government. Although his nomination was initially put forward by Burundi in early March 2026, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye formally pledged Dakar’s full diplomatic support following a high-level meeting. Senegal’s foreign diplomatic network has since been instructed to actively lobby UN member states on Sall’s behalf.
The selection process is operating under General Assembly guidelines designed to enhance visibility and accountability before the Security Council makes its official candidate recommendation for final Assembly approval. Sall stands as one of six officially registered candidates competing for the top diplomatic post. His official appearance in New York follows an intensive multi-nation diplomatic tour that included high-level consultations in Banjul, Beijing, and Athens as he continues to build broad international support for his candidacy.
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