Senegal, a good example of democracy for Africa, according to the EU
(B2) Relief to the European Union following the second round of elections held in Senegal on March 25. The very clear defeat of the outgoing president, Abdoulaye Wade, against his former prime minister, Macky Sall, and the very rapid recognition of this defeat, prelude to a peaceful, important alternation.
« Today is a great victory for democracy in Senegal and in Africa. Senegal is a very good example for Africa said the EU through the voice of Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the EU, in a statement released to the press. " I congratulate the Senegalese people, their leaders, political parties and civil society for the democratic spirit they have shown. The High Representative also welcomed the “ clear victory for Macky Sall “which she congratulated and greeted” the spirit of responsibility shown by the outgoing President, Abdoulaye Wade ».
Former President Wade was seeking a third term, having a very personal reading of the Constitution which limits to two terms. The opposition therefore demanded his departure. Violence had broken out before the first round on February 26. The fact that Wade won the first round (35% against 27%) and the unrest preceding this first round. raised fears of an escalation of violence in the country. This second round took place much more peacefully than the first, under the gaze of around 300 international observers, including more than 75 from the European Union, led by Dutch MEP Thys Berman and notably including Breton MEP Alain Cadec.
