The recent Riyadh festival in Mauritania concluded on a high note, with organizers successfully managing to balance mass participation and discipline. However, the event was also marked by the notable absence of discussion on the highly debated topic of a potential third term for President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani. Despite expectations from many observers and members of the political class, the festival steered clear of this sensitive issue.
The concept of a third term, or "Mamouriya Thalitha," has been a hot topic within the presidential majority, with many supporters calling for a new bid from President Ghazouani. However, in a surprise move, speakers at the festival, including the event's initiators and groups that recently joined the ruling party, chose to focus on supporting the President and his government's work rather than broaching the subject of a third term.
The decision to avoid discussing a third term was seen as a nod to the country's constitution, which strictly prohibits presidential term limits from being changed. Instead, speakers emphasized the need to continue the national development process that began in 2019. This approach was seen as a sign of maturity and restraint by the event's organizers and participants.
Notable figures, including Beygel Ould Ahmed, his daughter and Minister of Public Service Mariem Mint Beygel, and Mohamed Abdallah Ould Louly, coordinator of the ruling party, all adhered to the republican line, avoiding any mention of a third term. This collective self-restraint was seen as a positive step towards maintaining stability and upholding the country's laws.
The Riyadh festival was notable for its ability to bring together various groups and individuals in support of the ruling party. Despite some circles encouraging a challenge to the constitution, the event's focus on development and support for the President was seen as a welcome respite from the usual politicking.
The event's success in sidestepping the third-term debate has been attributed to the organizers' careful planning and commitment to upholding the country's laws. By doing so, they have set a positive precedent for future political gatherings and demonstrated a willingness to prioritize national stability over personal ambitions.
In conclusion, the Riyadh festival has shown that it is possible to hold large-scale political events in Mauritania without resorting to inflammatory rhetoric or calls for constitutional change. The event's emphasis on development and support for the President has been seen as a positive step towards maintaining stability and promoting national unity.
Key points
- The Riyadh festival successfully avoided discussing a potential third term for President Ghazouani.
