By
Humphrey Ukeaja In a historic turn of events, 44 years old, Bassirou Diomaye Faye has emerged as Senegal’s President-elect, ushering in a new era of optimism and drive for the youths in the continent of Africa . His unprecedented victory at the presidential election on Sunday, March 24, 2024, marks a significant departure from the political landscape of the past, that has been occupied for decades by oligarchs in Senegal.
At just 44 years old, he embodies the aspirations and dreams of a new generation of Senegalese, poised to lead his country with humility and transparency as he has always restated as a tax and audit expert.
His resilient journey to the presidency has been nothing short of remarkable. Having endured over 11 months in prison for expressing his views on social media, he emerged as a symbol of resilience and defiance against oppression. His release from prison just days before the election, followed by a triumphant victory, speaks volumes about the power of perseverance and the unwavering spirit of a youth who dared, dreamt and conquered.
In his inaugural acceptance speech, Faye articulated a vision for a Senegal that breaks free from the shackles of the past and neo-colonial tendencies with hope for it’s teeming young population.
His commitment to inclusive governance and social justice has struck a chord with millions of Senegalese who yearn for a brighter future.
What sets him apart is not only his youthfulness but also his ability to bridge the gap between generations. Despite his relatively young age, he has garnered the support and endorsement of seasoned politicians, demonstrating his capacity to unite diverse factions behind a common vision. By aligning himself with both the old guard such as prominent Mr. Donko and Former President, Mr. Wade and also majority of the youth, He positioned himself as a unifying force in Senegalese politics, which was very glaring and evident.
However, his journey and success is not just about Senegal only; it is a rallying cry for African youth across the continent. His triumph over adversity serves as a powerful reminder that the youth have the power to effect change and shape the future of their nations. In a world where young people are often marginalized and overlooked, Faye’s ascent to the presidency sends a clear message: the time for youth leadership is now !
His emergence is is a sense of optimism and renewed hope in Senegal. But his victory is just the beginning of a larger movement towards youth empowerment and political participation in Africa. It is a call to action for young people to rise up, speak out, and take charge of their destinies. Whether through activism, advocacy, or electoral politics, African youth must seize the opportunity to make their voices heard and shape the future of their continent.
A quote from his acceptance speech reads; “The Senegalese people have spoken, and they have chosen a path of change and progress. Let us rise to the challenge together, united in our quest for a better tomorrow.” It is time for African youth to heed this call, to Arise, and to forge a new path towards a brighter future for all.
Humphrey Ukeaja can be reached via humphreyeukeaja@gmail.com and he writes from Abuja
