Mauritania’s New Government: Achievements and Challenges

Former Foreign Minister Mohamed Fall Ould Bilal recently shared his insights on the formation of Mauritania’s latest government, stating that it has “achieved what was required of it in its first week.”

In an interview with Sahara 24 channel, Ould Bilal attributed the government’s success to the consensus-driven approach that guided its formation. He noted that the appointment of Mokhtar Ould Ajay as Prime Minister played a crucial role in addressing the challenges that arose after the elections.

Assessing the Government’s Performance

Ould Bilal emphasized the importance of patience when evaluating the government’s achievements, saying, “We must not rush and give it a hundred days before considering the outcome of its achievements.”

The Fight Against Corruption

Ould Bilal acknowledged that corruption is a significant problem in Mauritania, stating that governments often find themselves at a crossroads, forced to choose between fighting corruption and appeasing influential individuals. He argued that the key to combating corruption lies in eliminating favoritism and that this process begins with the president’s inner circle.

Recent Elections and the Role of Youth

Ould Bilal described the recent elections as “transparent and important,” highlighting the progress made in Mauritania’s electoral process. He also emphasized the need for young people to take on leadership roles, but stressed that this requires a strong sense of self-reliance, critical thinking, and a commitment to civic values.

Civic Education and Compulsory Civil Service

Ould Bilal advocated for a system of compulsory civil service at a young age, arguing that this would help empower the youth and promote a sense of civic responsibility. He also cautioned against framing Mauritania’s problems as a generational conflict, emphasizing that the elderly should support and empower the younger generation.