Mauritanian former Prime Minister Sidi Mohamed Ould Boubacar has launched his book, "Le temps de la transition sereine" (The Time of Serene Transition), on the sidelines of the Assila International Cultural Festival. The book recounts his experience during Mauritania's democratic transition from 2005 to 2007. Ould Boubacar led the transitional government, overseeing significant reforms. He described the period as a crucial chapter in Mauritania's recent political history.
The book offers a personal account and analysis of the country's transition, marked by significant events and reforms. Ould Boubacar aims to provide an objective reading of this period, which he believes has been shrouded in confusion. He seeks to contribute to a broader debate on democracy in the Arab and Islamic world. The book details various reforms, including those related to human rights, press freedom, and economic measures.
The events described in the book began after the 2005 political change in Mauritania, when a civilian government led a transition that culminated in presidential, legislative, and local elections. Ould Boubacar, a seasoned politician, had previously served as Minister of Finance and Prime Minister during the country's first democratic transition in 1992. His experience informed his leadership during the 2005-2007 transition.
The book examines numerous reforms implemented during this period, including those related to administration, public markets, budget management, and transparency. Moroccan author Abdelilah Al-Tahani praises the experience as remarkable, given the civilian government's autonomy to implement reforms. Al-Tahani notes that the book meticulously details the measures taken and the resulting laws, decrees, and institutional frameworks.
Ould Boubacar presents his book as a historical account rather than personal memoirs. He intends it as a legacy for history, observers, and citizens, both within Mauritania and abroad. This approach gives the book a character that transcends biography, offering a nuanced reading of Mauritania's political experience. The book raises questions about the legitimacy and impact of reforms implemented during a transitional period.
The book's preface highlights several key questions, including the legitimacy of reforms without electoral mandate and the ability of a provisional authority to establish lasting reforms. Al-Tahani mentions that a French edition of the book is available, expanding its reach to a broader audience. The launch event at the Assila festival provides a platform for discussing Mauritania's democratic journey.
The publication of "Le temps de la transition sereine" contributes to the ongoing debate about Mauritania's democratic experience. By sharing his insights, Ould Boubacar aims to foster a deeper understanding of the country's transition and its implications for future democratic development. The book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in Mauritania's recent history and the challenges of democratic transition.
Key points
- Former Mauritanian PM Sidi Mohamed Ould Boubacar launches book on 2005-2007 democratic transition
- Book details significant reforms implemented during transition period
- Author aims to provide objective reading of transition experience, contributing to broader debate on democracy
