• Perhaps the time has come for me to be a good MP

Many readers will be angry with me for stopping this “Les Lundis de Madiambal” column which has become a regular, unmissable event for almost two decades. The public became so attached to it that protests would fly every time, for one reason or another, the column was not published. This public interest and the insistent requests pushed us to adopt an audio-visual format in Wolof, “Yobbal Bi”. The success was real, given the enthusiasm of the public to watch it on your newspaper’s YouTube channel and its various other media. By suddenly deciding to change course, to invest myself now in the field of active political life, I will discontinue hosting this column. This is the place to sincerely thank the loyal public, to whom I express my gratitude.

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Compatriots have long encouraged me to plunge into politics, in order to participate more, not only in raising awareness by raising the public political debate, but also to participate in defining or developing better governance for Senegal. I remained deaf to these requests, considering that my alerts, warnings and criticisms, objectively formulated, would be enough for me as a contribution to building a Senegal of peace, democracy and prosperity; in any case, to make it a country better governed by its elites. Unfortunately, political actors, becoming more and more intolerant and resistant to criticism, have established a certain Manichaeism in public life; so that anyone who would make any criticism of their action is stamped with the opposing political side. Thus, whether you are involved in politics or not, you end up being classified as a politician. Moreover, no one will have seen me ask for or seek a political position or any post in the state apparatus. Quite the contrary, I have had to turn away from many opportunities to occupy public or political functions. I always insisted on remaining exclusively in the media and other private economic activities. I thank God for helping me avoid exposing myself and not giving in to the temptation of taking advantage of certain opportunities that proximity to public decision-makers often offers. Those who could doubt it have been edified since the advent of the new Sonko-Diomaye regime.

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The fact remains that I have finally decided to enter politics, probably at one of the lowest levels, by requesting a mandate as a parliamentarian in the next legislature. Spanning several years, political and civic organizations, religious and traditional figures and ordinary citizens assiduously approached me with suggestions that I take the political challenge. They felt that I could bring in something new. I declined these proposals. Indeed, I want to be modest in my ambitions, but above all realistic. I am convinced that political activity in general cannot bring me wealth, fame or a good reputation that I have not already had in my life. Touch wood, but I can consider, without any false modesty, that I have already achieved a few useful little things. I will therefore not covet a mandate as an MP to become someone.

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My compatriots will then be able to easily understand the naivety of my political commitment. I want to be a good MP who rigorously controls government action, and that will be enough to make me happy. My conviction is all stronger because Senegal is going down the drain, with leaders who are clearly incompetent, without virtue and spineless. They have erected lies, arrogance and irreverence as a method of opposition and want to make them a method of government. I cannot resign myself to accepting it without giving myself the means to fight them. I do not know if I will succeed, but I will have the moral satisfaction of having at least tried. I intend to do this with Senegalese people from all walks of life who share with me the same faith in the Republic, democracy and the values ​​and virtues that make the glory of this Nation and its ancestors. My goal is to contribute to a more dignified life for my community, in a State of Law where social equity, transparency and integrity reign, with a vigilant opposition to guarantee these principles.

To return to Le Quotidien, I must say that my editorial and managerial responsibilities were transferred to my colleagues several years ago. The progress of this press group, which has succeeded in establishing a credible and independent newspaper of reference, will continue without hindrance. As is common practice in major democracies, I could have continued, without any complexes, to host my weekly column, an opinion platform which does not constitute reporting. However, for the clarification of positions and the transparency requirements that I particularly want to impose on myself, I have chosen to make an appointment with interested people through other, more personal media. The appointment has already been made. This is just a goodbye. See you soon then.

By Madiambal DIAGNE / mdiagne@lequotidien.sn

  • Translation by Ndey T. SOSSEH