Mauritanian opposition leader Ahmed Haroun Sheikh Sidya has strongly criticized the government's policy statement, saying it is part of a systematic destruction algorithm employed by the regime. He accused the government of destroying the country through corruption and practicing outdated politics. Sidya stated that the government's claims are not credible and that the reality on the ground is one of scarcity, darkness, and frequent power outages.

Sidya expressed skepticism about the government's seriousness, citing the recent appointment of a new government despite a report highlighting corruption and negligence in the previous administration. He noted that the new government's lineup is similar to the old one, with some ministers being promoted or retained. Sidya argued that this move suggests that the government's primary goal is to maintain the status quo rather than implement meaningful change.

The opposition leader described the government's program as ordinary, with many promises that are not backed by concrete numbers. He accused the government of presenting a "game of numbers and percentages" rather than a genuine development plan. Sidya also criticized the government's focus on touting its achievements rather than presenting a new program, as required by law.

Sidya criticized the Prime Minister, Moktar Ould Aicha, for presenting a misleading picture of the country's economic situation. He argued that the government's claims about reducing tax pressure and controlling inflation are not supported by facts. Sidya noted that neighboring countries have been affected by global crises, but their inflation rates have not reached the levels seen in Mauritania.

Sidya accused the government of searching for excuses for its failures and blaming global crises rather than taking responsibility for its actions. He described the government's approach as "destroying the country's potential" and "practicing politics in a way that is detrimental to the people." Sidya emphasized that the government's actions are at odds with its rhetoric about development and progress.

The opposition leader highlighted the contradiction between the government's claims about separating politics from appointments and its actual practices. He noted that the current regime is one of the most guilty of politicizing appointments and excluding opponents. Sidya described Mauritania's democracy as "pseudo-democracy" since there is no real opposition in the country.

Sidya concluded that the government's policy statement is a clear example of "playing games" and "empty talk." He emphasized that the government's actions and rhetoric are not aligned, and that its development plans are limited to routine projects such as building school classrooms and roads. Sidya argued that the government needs to present a genuine development plan that addresses the country's real needs.

Key points

  • The Mauritanian opposition leader criticizes the government's policy statement as part of a systematic destruction algorithm.
  • The government is accused of destroying the country through corruption and practicing outdated politics.
  • The opposition leader questions the government's seriousness and credibility, citing its recent appointments and policy statements.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.