Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has issued a stern warning to political leaders, emphasizing that the power of democracy lies with the people, not their politicians.
This statement comes in the wake of reports indicating that opposition leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye has surged as the frontrunner to clinch Senegal’s presidential election, following concessions from several rivals.
The presidential election, held on Sunday, transpired after three tumultuous years marked by opposition protests against the incumbent, Macky Sall, who sought to indefinitely postpone the election. Despite Sall’s attempts to maintain power, the determination of Senegal’s populace has reshaped the political landscape.
In a post on her official X handle on Monday, Ezekwesili commended the people of Senegal for their resilience, asserting that when citizens reach a breaking point and collectively decide to enact change, no political maneuvering or opposition can thwart their will.
Ezekwesili stated, “Lessons from Senegal.
“It is the People and not their Politicians that own Democracy, Politics, Government and Governance.
“When people have finally had enough and make a determination to change their condition, no power of hell nor schemes of their politicians can prevail.
“The people of Senegal have shown the rest of our continent the way.
“We thank them,” she concluded.
