The Dakar Criminal Court has once again postponed its ruling in the high-profile case involving the alleged forgery of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko’s signature.
Initially scheduled for July 9, 2026, the verdict was deferred for the second time after judges decided they needed to hear from an additional witness linked to the proceedings. The new deliberation date has been set for July 23, extending the uncertainty for the accused.
Defendant remains in custody as trial stalls
Khardiata Tandian, the primary defendant in the case, has been held in detention since the investigation began. Her legal team recently filed a motion for provisional release, arguing that continued incarceration is no longer justified given the advanced stage of the trial.
The defense pointed out that all procedural documents have already been submitted and that there is no risk of witness tampering or evidence manipulation. They also highlighted Tandian’s prolonged detention—over a year—as a factor that could effectively cover any potential sentence she might face. Additionally, her lawyers stressed the severe social and family consequences of her continued imprisonment, noting that she is a married mother whose circumstances are worsening.
Prosecution opposes release on multiple grounds
Despite these arguments, the prosecution successfully argued against granting provisional freedom. The public prosecutor contended that releasing Tandian could disrupt public order and expressed doubts about her willingness to appear for future hearings. The court ultimately sided with the prosecution, leaving the defendant behind bars until the next hearing.
Awaiting the second key figure in the case
The trial’s outcome now hinges on the presence of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as Tandian’s alleged accomplice. His absence during earlier proceedings was the reason for the first postponement, and his continued failure to appear has forced the court to delay its decision once more. Judges have emphasized the need to hear all parties involved before finalizing the verdict.
With no further updates expected before July 23, Khardiata Tandian remains in custody, her fate unresolved as the judicial process drags on.