Mauritanian president calls for 'responsible' polls

By Mohamed al-Bakay

NOUAKCHOTT (AA) - Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Abdelaziz on Tuesday called for “responsible competition” in regards to presidential elections slated for later this month.

In an address marking the first day of the Eid al-Fitr holiday, Ould Abdelaziz urged Mauritanians to use the upcoming poll to “demonstrate their democratic sense” and “engage in responsible competition in an atmosphere of tolerance and brotherhood”.

On June 22, six candidates are expected to vie for the Mauritanian presidency.

These include former Defense Minister Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who enjoys Ould Abdelaziz’s support, and former Prime Minister Sidi Mohamed Ould Boubacar, who is backed by several Islamic-leaning political parties.

According to Mauritania’s constitution, Ould Abdelaziz -- who assumed the presidency in 2009 -- cannot run for a third term in office.