In Senegal, a singer’s bid for presidency
Internationally renowned musician Youssou NDour speaks to The Stream
Acclaimed Senegalese singer Youssou NDour announced his presidential candidacy last week, two months away from the Feb 26 elections. NDour is running under his movement “Fekke Maci Boole,” which means in the Senegalese language Wolof, “I am a part of this, so I must act.” NDour says he will fight against government corruption and focus on issues related to health, education and agriculture. He pledged to abandon his artistic and business endeavors if elected.
NDour has become a strong critic of Senegal’s 85-year-old President Abdoulaye Wade, who sparked unrest in the country after pushing for constitutional changes that could have ensured him a third term.
In this episode of The Stream, we talk to Youssou NDour about his qualifications and vision for the country.
What do you think? Does Senegal’s most celebrated artist have a shot at the presidency? Send us your thoughts and comments on Facebook or Twitter using hashtag #AJStream.
These are some of the social media elements featured in this episode of The Stream: