Former Senegalese President Macky Sall is officially a candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), with the election scheduled for December 2026 to succeed António Guterres.
The candidacy of the former head of state, who led Senegal from 2012 to 2024, was submitted on March 2, 2026, by Burundi to the relevant UN bodies. It also has the support of the African Union, which is advocating for stronger African representation at the head of the international organization.
According to supporters of the initiative, the appointment of an African to this position would represent an important step toward greater geopolitical balance within the UN system. Africa, which counts 54 member states in the United Nations, has never led the organization since its creation.
In the race for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations, the former Senegalese president could face several other contenders. Among the names mentioned is former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet.
The selection process for the next Secretary-General is expected to continue throughout 2026, with a final decision anticipated in December, when António Guterres’ mandate will come to an end.
