Opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye is currently leading in Senegal's presidential election, as reported by local media. While several of the 17 candidates have acknowledged his lead, official results have not yet been released.

Millions participated in a peaceful vote on Sunday, following three years of unrest and opposition demonstrations against the incumbent, Macky Sall.

The ruling coalition's candidate, Amadou Ba, has refuted claims of defeat and anticipates a run-off vote if no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote.

Mr. Faye, 44, a prominent figure in the Pastef party led by Ousmane Sonko, had been in detention until 10 days prior to the election. Sonko was disqualified from the race due to a defamation conviction he believes was politically motivated.

Initial results broadcast on television indicated Mr. Faye had garnered the majority of votes, sparking jubilant celebrations in Dakar, with supporters lighting fireworks and waving Senegalese flags.

The outcome prompted five opposition candidates to concede to Mr. Faye. Anta Babacar Ngom, the sole female candidate, expressed her well wishes to Mr. Faye.

While Mr. Faye has yet to comment on the results, they are based on local media tallies from results posted at individual polling stations. The number of stations counted is unclear, with official results expected by Tuesday.

Mr. Sonko supported Mr. Faye, the co-founder of his now dissolved Pastef party, who was also detained nearly a year ago on various charges. An amnesty law passed recently facilitated their release before the election.

Campaigning under the slogan "Diomaye is Sonko," they received support from some high-profile politicians and opposition candidates.

"The population is choosing between continuation and rupture," remarked Mr. Faye after casting his vote, urging his rivals to accept the outcome.

Mr. Sall, the incumbent, was not on the ballot for the first time in Senegal's history. His ruling coalition nominated Mr. Ba, 62, a former prime minister, as their candidate.

Mr. Ba's campaign stated that based on their analysis, they are confident that a run-off will be necessary.

Approximately 7.3 million people were eligible to vote in the country with a population of around 18 million.

The election, originally scheduled for last month, was postponed by Mr. Sall, leading to violent opposition protests.