Mauritania's opposition party, Union of Progressive Forces, has expressed concerns that the upcoming political dialogue may target the country's democratic transition of power. In a statement, the party reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the principles of democracy, emphasizing that the transition of power is a fundamental aspect of the republic. The party's statement comes in response to President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani's recent remarks in the city of Atar, where he assured that the dialogue aims to promote national reconciliation without altering the country's foundational principles.
The Union of Progressive Forces welcomed President Ghazouani's assurance that the dialogue will not undermine the republic's core principles. However, the party stressed that the country's constitution has established clear rules for the transition of power, which should be respected. According to the constitution, the transition of power is possible after a five-year presidential term and becomes mandatory after a second term. The party highlighted that articles 26 and 28 of the constitution define the length and number of presidential terms, while article 99 regulates the transition of power.
The opposition party noted that the current political climate is tense, with the ruling party, Union for the Republic, organizing a campaign that the opposition perceives as provocative. The party warned that the campaign is heading in a different direction and urged President Ghazouani to take measures to address the situation. The Union of Progressive Forces called on the president to confirm that the dialogue will not target the non-negotiable provisions of the constitution, either directly or indirectly.
The party's statement emphasized the importance of respecting the constitution's provisions, particularly those related to democratic transition, which are protected from revision. The Union of Progressive Forces believes that clarifying this point will help ease tensions and foster trust in the dialogue process. The party also stressed that it is possible and necessary to amend the constitution in various areas, as long as the rules established by the constitution itself are respected.
The Union of Progressive Forces reiterated its commitment to fighting for a comprehensive and genuine dialogue, while strictly adhering to the constitutional rules related to democracy and pluralism. The party's statement reflects its concerns about the potential risks to the country's democratic gains. The dialogue process is expected to bring together various stakeholders to discuss the country's future and the means to promote national reconciliation.
President Ghazouani's initiative to launch a national dialogue aims to address the country's challenges and promote a culture of tolerance and coexistence. However, the opposition party's concerns highlight the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the dialogue process. The success of the dialogue will depend on the ability of all parties to engage in constructive discussions and find common ground.
The Union of Progressive Forces' statement serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the country's democratic institutions and principles. The party's commitment to defending democracy and the constitution reflects its role as a key player in Mauritania's political landscape. The outcome of the dialogue process will be closely watched by various stakeholders, both domestically and internationally.
Key points
- The Mauritanian opposition party, Union of Progressive Forces, warns that the upcoming political dialogue should not undermine the country's democratic transition of power.
- The party emphasizes that the transition of power is a fundamental aspect of the republic, protected by the constitution.
- The dialogue process aims to promote national reconciliation, but its success depends on the ability of all parties to engage in constructive discussions and find common ground.
