Together with Marie Khone and Absa, the two first ladies of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye took the oath of office as president.
The 44-year-old Senegalese president takes over the country’s leadership from outgoing President Macky Sall.
He was sworn in, in Diamniadio, near Dakar, the capital, having defeated his main rival and ruling party coalition candidate Amadou Ba and winning the delayed election with over 54 per cent of the votes.
During his swearing-in, Faye presented his two wives before the country in an unusual scene.
Marie Khone, who until now had never been in the spotlight, hails from the same village as her barrister and tax inspector husband. They married 15 years ago, in 2009 and have four children—three boys and a girl.
The 34-year-old women’s rights activist is the first wife of Faye and played an important role in the president-elect’s political journey and struggle.
Marie Khone never held any known official title but is believed to command widespread respect in Senegal.
She championed initiatives to boost education and healthcare accessibility in Senegal. Her lasting legacy is a source of inspiration and empowerment for women within Senegal and beyond its borders.
Absa, the second wife, married Faye about a year ago as his second wife. Little is known of the 31-year-old who has no child yet for the new president.