Falsified signature case: Khardiata Tandian remains jailed as verdict delayed again

The fate of Khardiata Tandian remains uncertain as the Dakar Criminal Court once again postponed its verdict in the high-profile case involving a falsified signature allegedly linked to Ousmane Sonko.

The tribunal had initially scheduled the ruling for July 9, 2026, but the judge deferred the decision for the second time, setting the next hearing for July 23. The delay stems from the absence of a key figure in the case—Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as a presumed accomplice of Tandian. His presence is deemed essential before the court can reach a final resolution.

Legal maneuvers and detention concerns

In the wake of this latest adjournment, Tandian’s legal team seized the opportunity to file a provisional release request. Their arguments centered on her prolonged detention, which has now exceeded a year, and the completion of critical procedural steps, including the submission of all relevant police reports. The defense contended that further incarceration served no purpose, asserting that no risks of witness tampering or procedural interference existed.

The situation of Khardiata Tandian, described as a married mother of one, has reportedly deteriorated due to her prolonged imprisonment. Her lawyer emphasized the mounting social and familial consequences, arguing that her detention no longer aligned with the principles of justice.

Prosecution opposes release amid public order concerns

Despite these pleas, the public prosecutor firmly opposed the provisional release. The prosecution argued that granting freedom to Tandian could disrupt public order and that she did not provide sufficient guarantees for her continued presence throughout the trial. These objections swayed the court, which ultimately rejected the defense’s motion.

With the decision postponed yet again, Khardiata Tandian remains behind bars, awaiting the next judicial milestone. The outcome now hinges on the appearance of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy at the July 23 hearing—a prerequisite for the tribunal to deliver its final judgment.