Dakar: World-renowned Senegalese singer Youssou Ndour has announced he is running for president in a bid to unseat incumbent Abdoulaye Wade whose plans for a third
term have triggered unrest.
"I am a candidate" in the February 26 elections, the country's most famous export declared late yesterday on his privately-owned television station after weeks of speculation
about his plans.
Ndour has emerged as an outspoken critic of Wade, whose bid for a controversial third term in office has opposition and civil society groups fuming, and tensions have led to
violent clashes in recent months.
"I have listened, I have heard, and I am responding favourably," Ndour said, referring to numerous requests that he throw his hat into the political ring.
"It is a supreme patriotic duty," he added of the race in which he hopes to use his massive star power to overthrow the 85-year-old Wade.
Ndour, 52, announced at a concert at the end of November that he had put performing on hold and formed his own political movement, Fekke ma ci bolle ('I am involved' in the
Wolof language).
"It's true, I haven't pursued higher education, but the presidency is a function and not a job. I have proved my competence, commitment, rigour and efficiency time and time
again.
"I have studied at the school of the world. Travel teaches as much as books."
PTI
First Published: Tuesday, January 03, 2012, 17:42