World-famous Senegalese music star Youssou N'dour has officially entered his country's presidential race.
N'dour said Monday on the television station he owns that he will challenge President Abdoulaye Wade in the February election. The singer had announced in November he was taking time off from music in order to focus on politics.
Named by Time magazine in 2007 as one of the world's 100 most influential people, the N'dour, 52, has long used his music to deliver political messages. He has also emerged as an outspoken critic of President Wade.
The 85-year-old president is seeking a controversial third term, despite a constitutional two-term limit.
Wade's supporters say he can run because the law was not in effect when he was first elected in 2000.
Senegal's Constitutional Court has yet to rule on his eligibility.
Senegalese Music Star Youssou N'Dour to Run for President
