Mauritanian opposition parties accept dialogue with President only

Ten Mauritanian opposition parties met on Tuesday in Nouakchott to declare their readiness for dialogue with the republic’s President. The opposition parties have rejected dialogue with any other group, as they believe that the President is the only figure with the authority to guarantee meaningful reform. The parties confirmed in a statement received by Arabstoday that Mauritania faces “tough times on all fronts.” “The economic situation is worsening, while social conditions and living standards are becoming unbearable. This is exacerbated by the severity of drought and unchecked inflation.” “The government’s slogans are contradictory to their actions.” The statement accused the government of monopolising decision making, corruption, clientelism and nepotism, and wasting the country’s resources. “At a diplomatic and security level, Mauritania has endured government violence which has damaged relations between the south, east and north of the country.” “Additionally, Mauritania has repeatedly made diplomatic blunders, siding with despots in Ivory Coast, Libya, Syria and Yemen.” “In this climate, it is our responsibility to call for dialogue and democracy. We can only achieve comprehensive political reform through dialogue. This would enable the rebuilding of state structures and institutions on the basis of true democracy and foster the protection of diversity, law, justice and transparency.” The parties confirmed their support for the postponement of elections if it leads to a serious dialogue on electoral law, the electoral register, and the Independent Commission for Elections. This will eventually ensure that parties enjoy equal electoral opportunity. The parties intend to organise activities and events in the near future to help spread their common goals throughout the country. The ten parties are the following: 1.    Union of Progress Forces 2.    National Rally for Reform and Development 3.    National Federation for Democratic rotation 4.    Rally for Democracy and Unity 5.    RFD 6.    Movement for Democratic Change 7.    Mauritanian party for change and unity 8.    Justice, Freedom and Equality party 9.    Pioneers of democratic change 10.    National Democratic Gathering