Appearing before the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday 22 April 2026 as part of his bid for the post of UN Secretary-General, former Senegalese President Macky Sall outlined his vision for succeeding António Guterres. This key milestone highlights his diplomatic strengths and his experience in the geopolitical spheres of multilateralism.
Former Senegalese president Macky Sall reached a decisive milestone on 22 April 2026 in his bid to succeed António Guterres as Secretary-General of the United Nations. Before representatives of the 193 Member States of the UN General Assembly gathered in New York, he spent three hours outlining his vision for the organisation, focusing on the reform of multilateralism, global security, human rights and development. Although his candidacy still faces resistance, particularly at the national level, it is backed by Burundi, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the African Union.
In the face of pressing challenges and the promise of opportunities, multilateralism remains the essential framework for our shared ambitions: safeguarding international peace and security, protecting human rights, promoting development and fostering cooperation between peoples. It is in this spirit that I submit my candidacy to the Member States.
Macky Sall, Candidate for the position of UN Secretary-General
Macky Sall, presenting his UN vision, cites four decades in public affairs, including twelve years as Senegal’s President, marked by institutional stability and structural economic reforms like the Plan Sénégal Émergent. A geological engineer, former Prime Minister, and National Assembly President, he understands state mechanisms deeply. His 2022 tenure as African Union Chair bolstered his diplomatic standing, making him a credible voice on debt, development financing, and global governance reform.
The rapid advancement of technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, is opening up unprecedented prospects for humanity. If governed wisely, this technological revolution can be a formidable catalyst for progress, serving the betterment of humanity.
Macky Sall, Candidate for the position of UN Secretary-General
His profile as an experienced leader, accustomed to multilateral negotiations, as well as his command of global issues climate, security and development work in his favour. However, his candidacy will have to contend with the demands of a complex international consensus and criticism linked to political tensions observed during his second term. In a race where geopolitical balance and regional representation are decisive, Macky Sall’s hearing stands as a key test of his ability to rally support beyond the African continent.
