‘Sacrificial leadership’ — WAEF commends Senegal president for declining third term

The West Africa Elders Forum (WAEF) has commended Senegalese President Macky Sall, for declining to run for a third term in the country’s 2024 presidential election.

In a letter addressed to Sall on Wednesday, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who is also the WAEF convener, described the Sengalese president’s action as sacrificial and one taken in the best interest of the nation.

Jonathan spoke on behalf of the forum.

He said Sall’s decision would deepen democracy in West Africa and asked other African leaders to emulate his exemplary leadership.

“On behalf of the West Africa Elders Forum, I commend you for your display of statesmanship and patriotism by opting not to run in the forthcoming Senegal’s 2024 presidential election, a decision you have freely taken as a personal sacrifice in the interest of peace, unity and progress of your dear country,” the letter reads.

“Your action is a display of exemplary leadership and attests to your commitment to the process of deepening democracy in our region.

“This is a courageous gesture, one that is worthy of commendation and emulation by political actors and leaders in different spheres.”

WAEF also applauded the Senegalese leader for spearheading constitutional reforms aimed at improving governance in the country, adding that they are looking forward to welcoming him into the forum.

“I recall that as president, you had spearheaded far-reaching constitutional amendments to improve governance in Senegal, including the review of presidential tenure from seven to five years, a development that reduced your own tenure by two years,” the letter reads.

“This is a demonstration of sacrificial leadership and, as a forum of former presidents in our sub- region, we salute your courage and sense of patriotism by placing the interest of your nation above personal interest.

“As we look forward to the successful completion of your tenure next year, let me state that the forum is proud of your achievements and will be more than glad to welcome you as a member and work with you towards achieving our goals for sustainable democracy, peace and progress in our sub-region.”