Voters in Mauritania are preparing for the upcoming presidential election, scheduled for June 29, a crucial moment that could determine the fate of the country's fledgling democracy.

Mauritania, a vast desert nation scarred by a history of coups and military rule, is on the brink of a significant political juncture. Since gaining independence from France in 1960, the country has grappled with instability until a peaceful power transfer in 2019 marked a turning point in its political trajectory.

With a population of around 4.5 million, Mauritania stands at a crossroads as it navigates through challenges like armed violence in neighboring countries, racial discrimination, and issues of poverty and unemployment.

Who is running?

The presidential race features seven candidates vying for the nation's leadership.

• President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani – Backed by the ruling El Insaf Party, Ghazouani, a former military figure, is seeking a second term to build on the democratic transition initiated in 2019.
• Biram Ould Dah Ould Abeid – Known for his activism against slavery and discrimination, Abeid stands as a prominent opponent advocating for the rights of Afro-Mauritanians.
• Outouma Antoine Souleimane Soumare – A neurosurgeon running on a platform of social justice and equality, offering an alternative voice in the electoral landscape.

Additional candidates include Hamadi Sidi Mokhtar Mohamed Abdi, Mamadou Bocar Ba, El Id Mohameden M’Bareck, and Mohamed Lemine El Mourteji El Wafi, each bringing unique perspectives to the electoral discourse.

What are the key issues?

• Unemployment: With a significant youth population, Mauritania grapples with high levels of unemployment, necessitating a focus on creating job opportunities and skill development.
• Poverty: The nation faces severe poverty rates, prompting calls for improved living conditions and economic stability.
• Amenities: Basic amenities like electricity and water access remain critical demands, highlighting the need for infrastructural development.
• Insecurity: Concerns loom over border security amid regional unrest, posing challenges that require strategic leadership to address effectively.
• Refugees: The influx of refugees from neighboring conflict zones presents humanitarian challenges that warrant attention and support.

What’s Ghazouani’s legacy?

Ghazouani's tenure has been marked by efforts to diversify the government and combat corruption, yet criticisms persist regarding human rights abuses and ongoing challenges in governance.

The president's policies, including language directives and anticorruption measures, have elicited mixed reactions from the populace, reflecting ongoing debates on national identity and governance practices.

Is the National elections commission (CENI) trusted?

The credibility of the elections commission has been questioned in the past, raising concerns over electoral transparency and adherence to democratic principles.

Despite reforms aimed at enhancing the commission's integrity, past allegations of irregularities underscore the need for vigilance and oversight in the electoral process.

What’s next?

As Mauritania braces for the upcoming elections, the political landscape stands at a critical juncture, with outcomes poised to shape the country's future trajectory and governance dynamics.