Brussels, 26/03/2012 (Agence Europe) - The European Union has applauded the democratic and peaceful hand over of power which looks likely in Senegal after victory has provisionally been given to Macky Sall who stood against outgoing President Abdoulaye Wade. Wade who was seeking re-election for a third term - in contravention of the country's two-term limit - acknowledged defeat in the evening of Sunday 25 March even before the full results were known. The EU sees in this a victory for democracy in Senegal and for all of Africa - in stark contrast to last week's military coup in Mali.
Noting the provisional result of the second round of voting in the presidential election, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton said on Monday evening: “I congratulate the people of Senegal, the country's leaders, its political parties and civil society on the democratic spirit they have shown. Thanks to the attitude demonstrated by the people and authorities, today marks a great victory for democracy, in Senegal and more widely in Africa. I acknowledge the provisional result which indicates a clear victory for Macky Sall and I congratulate him. I hail the responsibility shown by outgoing President Abdoulaye Wade.”
Ashton also thanked MEP Thys Berman, who led the EU electoral observation team, and the European Parliament delegation headed by Santiago Fisas Ayxella “for their active commitment to making the electoral process more transparent and credible”.
European Parliament President Martin Schulz, speaking on behalf of the Parliament, congratulated Macky Sall and stated: “After the tense election season, I particularly welcome the ongoing smooth and peaceful transition of power in Senegal and call on all parties to continue showing restraint. I congratulate the Senegalese people, electoral authorities, party representatives and observers, civil society and media for the proper conduct of the polls.” He noted that “Senegal is a key partner for the European Union and is one of the most stable countries in the region. Senegal's democratic tradition has been reinforced by the elections and by the process of smooth transition of presidential powers.” (AN/transl.rt)