Ousmane Sonko signature case: Khardiata Tandian remains jailed as verdict delayed again

The Dakar Criminal Court has once again postponed its ruling in the high-profile case involving the alleged falsification of Ousmane Sonko‘s signature, keeping Khardiata Tandian behind bars. The decision, initially scheduled for July 9, 2026, has been rescheduled to July 23, marking the second delay in this closely watched legal battle.

The tribunal cited the absence of a key figure in the proceedings—Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, identified as a presumed accomplice—as the reason for the postponement. His presence is deemed essential before the court can finalize its verdict. This latest adjournment follows the same rationale as the first, leaving the case in limbo until his scheduled appearance.

Defense pushes for provisional release amid mounting legal arguments

In the wake of this postponement, Khardiata Tandian‘s legal team filed a motion for her provisional release. Her lawyer argued that all procedural documents had already been submitted and that her continued detention was no longer justified. The defense emphasized that Tandian has already been heard in court and that the primary investigative steps are complete. Additionally, they stressed the lack of risk of witness tampering or evidence tampering, stating that her presence would not interfere with the proceedings.

The defense also highlighted the over a year Tandian has spent in custody, suggesting that any potential sentence she might receive could already be covered by her time served. Furthermore, they pointed to the severe social and familial consequences of her prolonged incarceration, describing her as a married mother whose family is suffering under her absence.

Prosecution resists release on grounds of public order

The public prosecutor opposed the motion, arguing that granting provisional release would pose a threat to public order. The prosecution contended that Khardiata Tandian did not provide sufficient guarantees to ensure her appearance at future hearings. The tribunal ultimately sided with the prosecution, denying the request and maintaining her detention pending the next court session.

As the case remains suspended, Khardiata Tandian will continue to wait in prison until the court reconvenes on July 23. The outcome now hinges on the presence of Chérif Zeyni Abidin Sy, whose absence has already disrupted the timeline once. Unless unforeseen circumstances arise, the court is expected to deliver its verdict on the revised date, leaving the accused in a state of legal uncertainty for the foreseeable future.