Mr. Bassirou Faye has become the youngest President in Senegal's history.

Although the final results have not been announced, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, who is also the candidate supported by incumbent President Macky Sall, has admitted defeat based on preliminary results.

Mr. Ba himself sent his congratulations and also named Faye as the winner. “I wish him every success, for the happiness of the Senegalese people,” he said in a statement released Monday afternoon referring to Mr. Faye as President.

King Bassirou Faye became the youngest president in the history of Senegal picture 1 — Bassirou Diomaye Faye speaks during his first press conference after being declared the winner of Senegal's 2024 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 numerous political arrests surrounding the 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 .

Mr Faye was charged with a number of crimes in April last year. Sonko and Faye were both jailed the following July. Both were released on March 14 this year after months in prison, under a political amnesty.

Outgoing President Macky Sall also described the vote as a victory for Senegal. Mr Faye, who celebrated his 44th birthday on Monday, will become the West African nation’s youngest-ever president.

Quang Anh (according to France 24, New York Times)

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