Will Anta Ngom be able to reshape Senegal’s political terrain?

Senegal goes to polls on Sunday to elect a new leader and in the dynamic realm of the country’s politics, the emergence of Anta Ngom as a potential catalyst for change has sparked significant intrigue and debate.

As the nation grapples with various socio-political challenges, including issues of governance, economic development, and social justice, the question on many minds is: Does Anta Ngom have the stamina required to reshape Senegal’s political atmosphere?

The facts

Anta Babacar Ngom stands out as a figure of hope and potential change in the dynamic landscape of Senegalese politics. As the first woman to run for president in over a decade, her candidacy in the 2024 elections is not just historic but also a litmus test for the country’s readiness to embrace progressive leadership.

A blend of charisma, ambition, and a purported commitment to reform has marked her rise to prominence. Born and raised in Senegal, Ngom has cultivated a strong grassroots following, leveraging her background as a community organiser to connect with citizens across the country.

“Our country has enormous potential. The natural resources are there, and they can be developed,” she told The Associated Press in a recent interview. “The young girls I meet ask for my support. They do so because they know that when a woman comes to power, she will put an end to their suffering. I’m not going to forget them.”

Ngom’s candidacy marks a significant milestone as the first female presidential contender in over a decade. However, it also underscores the lingering frustration among activists who perceive progress toward gender equality as painfully sluggish. Many argue that there has been a concerning resurgence among young people embracing more traditional perspectives on women’s societal roles.

Moreover, the road to political transformation in Senegal is fraught with challenges, and Ngom’s ability to navigate these hurdles will be closely scrutinised.

The arguments

Ngom, a 40-year-old businesswoman and human rights activist is known for her strength of character and advocacy for social and economic welfare. Her ambition to break down barriers in Senegal’s conservative society is a bold move in a country where patriarchal attitudes and laws are deeply rooted.

Despite holding 44% of the seats in Senegal’s parliament, women in leadership positions still face significant challenges due to traditional Islamic values that dominate the societal fabric.

Ngom’s campaign, therefore, is not just about winning an election; it’s about challenging the status quo and inspiring a shift in cultural perceptions.

One of the key obstacles she faces is entrenched political interests and power dynamics that have long shaped the country’s political landscape. Senegal’s political elite wields considerable influence, often prioritising self-preservation over genuine reform.

Moreover, Senegal’s socio-economic realities pose formidable barriers to change. Despite being one of West Africa’s more stable democracies, the country continues to grapple with issues of poverty, inequality, and youth unemployment.

Addressing these systemic challenges requires not only political will but also effective governance structures and sustainable policy solutions.

In evaluating Ngom’s potential impact, it is essential to consider her approach to coalition-building and consensus-building. While she may command a loyal support base, achieving meaningful progress will likely necessitate collaboration with other political actors, civil society organisations, and international partners.

Building alliances across ideological divides and forging consensus on key policy priorities will be critical to overcoming resistance to change.

Furthermore, Ngom’s leadership style and vision for Senegal’s future will come under scrutiny. Beyond rhetoric and promises, voters will demand concrete plans and actionable strategies for addressing pressing issues such as corruption, infrastructure development, healthcare, and education.

Her ability to articulate a compelling vision for the country’s future and inspire confidence in her leadership will be pivotal in winning over sceptics and mobilising support.

Ultimately, the question of whether Anta Ngom possesses the stamina required to reshape Senegal’s political terrain remains unanswered. While her grassroots support and advocacy for change offer reasons for optimism, the challenges ahead are formidable.