The Correctional Court in Dakar has deferred the verdict in the case involving the alleged falsification of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s signature, involving Khardiata Tandian, to July 23, 2026. Initially scheduled for July 9, 2026, the ruling was postponed due to the absence of Cherif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as the alleged accomplice of the accused.
The court also rejected Khardiata Tandian’s request for provisional release. Her legal team argued that she met all the criteria for such a measure, citing her prolonged pre-trial detention of over a year, her married status, and her role as a mother. They further contended that the time already served could potentially cover the maximum sentence, and that continued incarceration would severely disrupt her social standing. Despite these points, the defense’s pleas were unsuccessful.
The prosecution strongly opposed the release, asserting that Khardiata Tandian’s freedom could disrupt public order and that she did not provide sufficient guarantees of appearing in court. While her lawyers countered that there was no risk of witness tampering since she had already testified, the tribunal sided with the public prosecutor’s arguments. As a result, Khardiata Tandian remains in custody pending the final judgment in the case.
