Mauritania's ruling party, Al-Islah, is set to convene on Tuesday to discuss a demand from its supporters for President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani to run for a third term in office. A source close to the party told Saharamedias.net that the party's permanent committee will meet to examine the demand, which has been gaining traction among the party's grassroots. The move comes after the party's political bureau tasked the committee with studying the matter last month.
The demand for a third term for President Ghazouani has been met with resistance from opposition parties, who have expressed concerns that it could undermine the country's democratic institutions. In a joint statement, several opposition parties and formations said that promoting a third term for the president sends mixed signals, particularly at a time when the country is preparing for national political dialogue. They called for an end to any campaigns or initiatives aimed at changing the constitutional provisions governing presidential terms.
According to the source, the party's permanent committee is obligated to discuss and make a decision on the demand from its supporters, who are reportedly united in their desire for President Ghazouani to run for a third term. The committee's meeting comes at a time when the country is grappling with the issue of presidential term limits, and the opposition has vowed to resist any attempts to amend the constitution to allow for a third term.
The issue of a third term for President Ghazouani has sparked debate in Mauritania, with some arguing that it would be a continuation of his development agenda, while others see it as an attempt to consolidate power. The president's supporters argue that he has made significant progress in areas such as infrastructure development, healthcare, and education, and that a third term would allow him to complete his projects.
In a recent press conference, the party's permanent secretary for communication and training, Yerb Ould El-Man, said that the demand for a third term for President Ghazouani had emerged as a key issue in the party's consultations with its grassroots. He noted that the issue had generated significant interest among the public and had become a focal point in the party's discussions.
The opposition's resistance to a third term for President Ghazouani has been driven by concerns about the country's democratic trajectory. They argue that allowing a third term would set a bad precedent and undermine the country's institutions. The opposition has called for a national dialogue on the issue, which they say should be guided by the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
The outcome of the Al-Islah party's meeting on Tuesday is expected to have significant implications for Mauritania's politics. If the party decides to support a third term for President Ghazouani, it could pave the way for a constitutional amendment, which would require a two-thirds majority in parliament. However, if the party rejects the demand, it could ease tensions and allow for a more orderly transition of power.
Key points
- The ruling party's decision on President Ghazouani's third term bid will have significant implications for Mauritania's democratic institutions.
- Opposition parties have expressed concerns that a third term for the president could undermine the country's democratic trajectory.
- The issue of presidential term limits has sparked a national debate in Mauritania.
