Africa
Get to know the two wives of Senegal’s new president: Marie Khone and Absa
Newly inaugurated President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has officially taken on the role of the country’s highest political leader, succeeding former President Macky Sall.
The 44-year-old Senegalese leader was sworn in at Diamniadio, located near the capital city of Dakar, after emerging victorious in the election by defeating his main opponent, Amadou Ba, who was the candidate of the ruling party coalition, securing over 54 percent of the total votes.
During the inauguration ceremony, President Faye introduced his two wives to the nation, a unique and unprecedented gesture in Senegalese politics.
Marie Khone, the first wife of President Faye, is a 34-year-old women’s rights activist who has been instrumental in her husband’s political career.
The couple, who got married in 2009, have four children together and share a deep connection as they both hail from the same village.
Despite not holding any official title, Marie Khone is highly respected in Senegal for her advocacy work in education and healthcare accessibility, leaving a lasting impact on women’s empowerment both within the country and beyond.
Absa, the second wife of President Faye, married him just a year ago and is yet to have children with him. Little is known about the 31-year-old second lady, but her presence alongside Marie Khone marks a significant moment in Senegalese political history.