Mauritania's opposition party Tawassoul recently held sit-ins against calls for a third term for the country's president. The party's head of information and communication, Eknate ould Naghra, stated that their position is clear: they reject a third term, citing the importance of respecting the constitution and ensuring peaceful alternation of power. The sit-ins, which took place on October 21, were held under the slogan "Les trois Non" (The three No's), with the first being "No to a third term."
Ould Naghra emphasized that if the majority persists in pushing for a third term, the opposition will resist politically and civically, while adhering to peaceful, legal, and constitutional means. He stressed that the national dialogue, set to take place soon, should focus on addressing governance issues, not altering the rules of alternation. The opposition is awaiting a clear statement from the president on this matter, as the current silence has sparked concerns.
The opposition's participation in the national dialogue has been hindered by disagreements over representation. Ould Naghra stated that Tawassoul is willing to participate, but only if the conditions for a serious, credible, and inclusive dialogue are met. He noted that the opposition is divided on whether to participate, boycott, or participate conditionally, and that Tawassoul's role is to bring together different viewpoints through dialogue and consultation.
Ould Naghra also addressed the recent report on the SOMELEC commission of inquiry, which highlighted serious shortcomings in the execution of works, control, and security. He emphasized that the report's recommendations must be implemented, and that those responsible for any wrongdoing must be held accountable. The opposition is calling for concrete measures to combat corruption and ensure transparency in public fund management.
The recent cabinet reshuffle and the Prime Minister's tour of public construction sites in Nouakchott have been met with skepticism by the opposition. Ould Naghra stated that the government's performance should be evaluated based on tangible results, not just changes in personnel or symbolic visits. He emphasized that citizens expect improvements in essential services such as education, healthcare, and electricity.
The new Minister of Culture's circular banning the use of French in internal administrative correspondence has sparked debate. Ould Naghra distinguished between this measure, which aims to promote the use of Arabic, and the country's campaign to support its candidate for the head of the Francophonie, Coumba Ba. He noted that the promotion of Arabic is a natural step, but that it should not be seen as a contradiction to the country's commitment to the Francophonie.
Ould Naghra concluded by emphasizing the importance of a clear and unified stance on key issues, including the rejection of a third term and the promotion of good governance. He called for a serious and inclusive national dialogue that addresses the country's pressing issues, and for concrete measures to be taken to implement the recommendations of the SOMELEC commission of inquiry.
Key points
- The opposition party Tawassoul rejects calls for a third term for Mauritania's president, citing the importance of respecting the constitution.
- The opposition is calling for a clear stance from the president on the third-term issue.
- The national dialogue should focus on addressing governance issues, not altering the rules of alternation.
