My Tiny Feed

dw.com

Senegal Elections: Personalization Overshadows Programs

Senegal's legislative elections are overshadowed by the personalization of the campaign around former president Macky Sall's legacy, rather than party programs. Analysts criticize this focus, highlighting voter confusion and strategic limitations.

Read original article in French

French

Germany

PoliticsElectionsAfricaLeadershipCampaignSenegal

Takku WalluPastefPds

Macky SallBassirou Diomaye FayeBabacar DioneMamadou Sy AlbertPape Kabo

What is the main focus of Senegal's legislative election campaign?: Senegal's upcoming legislative elections are highly personalized, focusing on the achievements of former President Macky Sall rather than party programs. This overshadows the electoral program of the Takku Wallu list, particularly since Sall leads it.
What is the main criticism of the Takku Wallu coalition's campaign strategy?: The Takku Wallu coalition's campaign relies heavily on Sall's past successes, lacking a distinct program. Analysts point out this strategy is a handicap, as it fails to clearly articulate their vision for the future.
How does the current campaign relate to previous presidential election themes?: While the personalization of political campaigns isn't new in Senegal, it's particularly striking in these legislative elections, blurring the lines between presidential and legislative agendas. Parties reuse presidential themes, aiming for a parliamentary majority.
How do political analysts view the current campaign's emphasis on past presidential achievements?: Political analysts criticize this personalization, arguing it confuses voters about the role of a Member of Parliament (MP). They contend that MPs' roles are not to build roads or infrastructure, thus the emphasis on past presidential achievements is misleading.
Beyond Macky Sall's legacy, what are other key issues in the current legislative election campaign?: The current election campaign focuses significantly on Macky Sall's legacy, the repeal of the amnesty law, the establishment of a special court of justice, violence, and the fulfillment of promises made by the ruling majority.

Apr 13, 22:10

Nguema Wins Gabon's Presidency in Landslide Victory

Gabon's military leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, won the presidential election with roughly 90 percent of the vote, ending the Bongo family's 55-year rule; his victory follows a 2023 coup and raises questions about genuine reform amidst high unemployment and poverty.

Apr 13, 04:08

Tanzania's CHADEMA Banned From Elections

Tanzania's electoral commission disqualified the main opposition party, CHADEMA, from the October elections for failing to sign a code of conduct, following treason charges against its leader Tundu Lissu for allegedly plotting to disrupt the vote; the ban extends to all by-elections until 2030.

Apr 12, 10:12

Gabon Holds Presidential Election Without Bongo Family

Gabon holds its presidential election today, marking the first time in decades a Bongo family member isn't running, following last year's coup; eight candidates are competing, including a former prime minister and members of the former ruling party; results are expected Sunday.

Apr 9, 22:13

German Coalition Agreement Reached, Merz Set for Chancellorship

Germany's new coalition government, likely led by Friedrich Merz as Chancellor, is formed after six weeks of negotiations, with key policy focuses on tax cuts, increased defense spending, stricter immigration policies, and support for Ukraine.