The Criminal Court of Dakar has deferred its verdict in the case involving the alleged forgery of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s signature, involving Khardiata Tandian. 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 defendant.
Detention upheld despite defense arguments
The court also rejected Khardiata Tandian’s request for provisional release. Her legal team argued that she met all necessary conditions for such a measure, emphasizing her prolonged pre-trial detention of over a year, her marital status, and her role as a mother. The defense further contended that the time already served could potentially cover any eventual sentence, and that further incarceration would severely disrupt her personal and social life.
However, the prosecution strongly opposed her release, citing concerns over public order and insufficient guarantees that she would appear for future court proceedings. The defense countered that there was no risk of witness tampering since Khardiata Tandian had already testified in court. Despite these arguments, the tribunal sided with the prosecution’s stance, leaving the defendant in custody until the case reaches its conclusion.
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