In a televised address, Senegal's president declared that he is "ready to conversation," weeks after a prominent rival who is on trial accused him of employing a "policy of terror" to drive out political rivals.

At an address on Monday night, President Macky Sall made the remarks ahead of Tuesday's independence day celebrations, which the Yewwi Askan Wi opposition coalition has decided to boycott.

The country is less than a year away from presidential elections, and last month there was an outcry when Mr Sall said it wouldn't be illegal for him to seek a third term in power despite the constitution limiting presidents to two consecutive terms.

He has not yet officially declared whether he intends to step down or run for top office again.