A video did the rounds of social media in late December showing an unescorted Macky Sall at the wheel of a Toyota SUV in the streets of Dakar, with his daughter in the passenger seat beside him. The outing, which was intended to show a president who is close to his people, was carefully filmed by a member of his communications team. The operation had its effect but also brought a wry smile to the faces of many Dakar inhabitants who are exasperated by the regular comings and goings of the massive