Senegal Sufi orders will avoid political endorsement

Significance

This reflects the crucial, albeit sometimes subtle, role that Sufi orders play in Senegalese politics and society.

Impacts

• Despite good Muslim-Christian relations, Sufi influence will make another Christian presidency highly unlikely.
• Inter-generational and factional tensions within dominant Sufi orders could fragment their influence in the longer term.
• A strong performance by Sall's political coalition in the July elections would increase the likelihood that he will seek a third term.