Former Senegalese president Macky Sall has formally joined the race to succeed António Guterres as Secretary-General of the United Nations, with his candidacy officially registered in New York.
The bid was submitted by Burundi on behalf of the African Union, in line with UN rules requiring nomination by a member state.
According to international reports, Burundi formally notified the UN of the candidacy on March 2, initiating the consultation phase ahead of the end of Guterres’ mandate on December 31, 2026.
Senegalese outlets report that the application file was delivered to UN headquarters by Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye in his capacity as current AU Chairperson, underscoring continental backing for Sall’s bid.
Sall now joins a growing list of contenders for the UN’s top post. Rafael Grossi, nominated by Argentina, has confirmed his candidacy, while former Chilean leader Michelle Bachelet has been put forward by Chile, Brazil, and Mexico after previously serving in senior UN roles.
Rebeca Grynspan has also been announced as Costa Rica’s candidate by President Rodrigo Chaves. Under UN procedure, the United Nations Security Council will recommend a candidate to the United Nations General Assembly for final appointment, with hearings and diplomatic consultations expected in the months ahead.
In Senegal, Sall’s candidacy has sparked varied reactions across the political spectrum and among the public.
