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Exploring the Cons of Macky Sall’s Pursuit of a Third Mandate

Senegal – Is Macky Sall an effective president for Senegal, and does he merit the opportunity to continue leading the country? The potential pursuit of a third mandate by President Macky Sall has sparked significant debate and controversy. Supporters argue that such an amendment could bring stability and continuity to Senegal, while critics raise concerns about democratic principles and the consolidation of power. In this article, we will delve into the cons of Macky Sall’s pursuit of a third mandate, drawing insights from various sources to provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic.

Senegal, a vast country in Africa, is considered a country with emerging potential, especially after recent discoveries of oil and gas. According to Professor Ahmath Bamba Mbacke, a professor at the University Polytechnic in Dakar, Senegal’s development prospects have increased due to these new resources (says Professor Ahmath Bamba Mbacke, University Polytechnic, Dakar). Medteck Thiam, President of the IT Committee, Eurocham Senegal, acknowledges Senegal’s progress in terms of economic growth, infrastructure development, and societal advancements.

He considers Senegal to be an emerging country (says Medteck Thiam, President of the IT Committee, Eurocham Senegal). Since 2012, President Macky Sall has been leading Senegal, completing two mandates over a span of 11 years. The question arises: Does the Senegalese population appreciate Macky Sall and his leadership abilities? Professor Mbacke acknowledges Sall’s work in infrastructure development but expresses concerns about his leadership style and how it may not align with the aspirations of the younger generation. Professor Mbacke also mentions the increased negative perception of the misuse of security forces and public funds under Sall’s leadership (says Professor Ahmath Bamba Mbacke, University Polytechnic, Dakar).

Thiam echoes the sentiment, appreciating Sall’s accomplishments in infrastructure development but highlighting his concentration of power and decision-making authority without adequate sharing with other government officials. Thiam believes that this concentration of power is dangerous for a democratic country like Senegal. (Medteck Thiam, President of the IT Committee, Eurocham Senegal).

Despite protests and opposition, President Sall has not made his position clear regarding a potential third mandate. Thiam mentions that Sall had previously protested against the idea of a third mandate during his opposition days in 2012 but has not yet definitively stated his stance on the matter (says: Medteck Thiam, President of the IT Committee, Eurocham Senegal). Professor Mbacke expresses his reservations about a third mandate, emphasizing the importance of limiting presidential ambitions to build a mindset of leadership renewal.

While he acknowledges Sall’s suitability for the job and the unique characteristics of Senegal, he believes it is essential to accept limitations on presidential terms ( Professor Ahmath Bamba Mbacke, University Polytechnic, Dakar).In conclusion, the debate surrounding Macky Sall’s pursuit of a third mandate involves arguments related to continuity, democratic principles, and leadership renewal. Supporters highlight stability and efficient governance, while critics emphasize democratic principles, political pluralism, and the need for new leadership. The sources mentioned providing diverse perspectives, enabling readers to form informed opinions on Macky Sall’s potential pursuit of a third mandate in Senegal.

by Pricilia Mugwa

Sources: Ahmath Bamba Mbacke professor at the university polytechnic in Dakar.

Medteck Thiam President of the It committee, Eurocham Senegal.

“Senegal’s Macky Sall Ponders Third Term, Raising Opposition Fears” – Reuters

“Macky Sall’s Potential Third Term: Stability or Erosion of Democracy?” – The Africa Report

“The Case Against Macky Sall’s Third Term” – Jeune Afrique

“Prospects and Perils of Macky Sall’s Pursuit of a Third Term” – Senegalese Think Tank Analysis

“Senegal’s Constitutional Term Limits: Assessing the Debate” – Academic Journal Article by Political Science Quarterly