Senegalese Christians urged to strengthen political engagement
The Autonomous Christian Movement for Sustainable Development (MAC 20), a civil society organization in Senegal, has highlighted what it calls an insufficient level of political commitment among the country’s Christian community.
The call was made during a forum held in Mbour, south of Dakar, on June 10. Organized under the theme “Christian Political Engagement and Leadership”, the event drew participation from key political figures, including the Minister of Armed Forces, Augustin Tine.
The timing of the forum was strategic, coinciding with preparations for the legislative elections scheduled for July 30 of the same year.
Lack of Christian political leadership
Speaking on behalf of MAC 20, its president, Emile Daly Diouf, stressed the need for greater involvement of Catholics in political processes. “Although we represent a minority in Senegal, our engagement must be far more impactful than it currently is,” he stated.
Diouf acknowledged that individual Christians are active within political parties, but pointed out the absence of a cohesive Christian leadership voice in decision-making circles. “Christians must position themselves where critical decisions are made,” he emphasized. “We aim to empower them to speak out on political matters and contribute to shaping national policies. Additionally, we are committed to supporting religious authorities in this journey.”
He clarified that while MAC 20 does not intend to field its own candidates, it may endorse suitable political figures, particularly ahead of the 2019 presidential elections. “Our focus is not on proposing candidates but on supporting those who already stand for election. This is where our distinction lies. We encourage Christians to step forward in their respective political spheres, and we will back their efforts to enhance their influence and leadership.”
Minimal representation in parliament
Hélène Tine, a Christian parliamentarian, echoed these concerns, citing the underrepresentation of Christians in Senegal’s political landscape. “As full citizens, we cannot remain on the sidelines of governance and public affairs. The Church actively encourages our participation,” she remarked.
She shared her personal journey, driven by a call from bishops to engage more deeply in politics. “The Christian community is highly organized and dynamic in many areas, yet lags behind in political involvement.” She noted that out of 150 deputies in the current parliament, only three are Christian—including herself, who is the sole Christian woman among 64 female deputies.
“Christian participation in political life remains modest. On national lists, they are often placed in positions with little chance of success,” she explained. “Both the Christian community and political parties must work harder to foster diversity, a cornerstone of Senegalese society that must be preserved and strengthened.”
