In an open letter dated September 18, 2026, Birame Dah Abeid, a prominent Mauritanian activist, expressed his deep concern and disappointment over a leaked letter allegedly written by former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz to current President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani. Dah Abeid's letter, addressed to Ghazouani, reflects on the struggles he faced under Abdel Aziz's rule and urges Ghazouani to change the dynamics of oppression and violence that have plagued Mauritania.
Dah Abeid, founder of the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement (IRA), recounted his personal experiences of persecution, imprisonment, and harassment under Abdel Aziz's presidency. He expressed empathy for Ghazouani, who he believes is also a victim of the same system, and called on him to use his position to promote unity, forgiveness, and healing.
The letter highlights the long history of human rights abuses and suppression of dissent in Mauritania, with Dah Abeid pointing to the cases of the Ehl Hbeil Samba family, who were subjected to violence and intimidation. He questioned why Ghazouani continues to use the same repressive apparatus as his predecessor, targeting individuals and groups he perceives as threats to his rule.
Dah Abeid also referenced a recent announcement by the Chourfa Ehl Ghadda family, who are organizing a grand welcome for Ghazouani in the wilaya of Inchiri. He urged the President to reflect on the loyalty of his close associates and the potential consequences of his actions on their relationships with his successor.
The activist emphasized the need for Ghazouani to break the cycle of violence and oppression that has characterized Mauritanian politics. He encouraged the President to take a different path, one that promotes unity, reconciliation, and respect for human rights.
Dah Abeid's letter has sparked a national conversation about the state of human rights and governance in Mauritania. The country has a history of authoritarian rule, and the situation remains challenging for activists, journalists, and opposition figures.
As the Mauritanian government prepares for future elections, Dah Abeid's message serves as a reminder of the need for genuine reforms and a shift towards more inclusive and participatory politics. The President's response to these concerns will likely have a significant impact on the country's trajectory and its relations with the international community.
Key points
- Birame Dah Abeid urges President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani to break the cycle of violence and oppression in Mauritania.
- Dah Abeid recounts his personal experiences of persecution under former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz's rule.
- The letter highlights the long history of human rights abuses and suppression of dissent in Mauritania.
