In a candid assessment of Senegal’s political landscape, the Christian Autonomous Movement for Sustainable Development (MAC 20) has highlighted a glaring shortcoming: the political engagement of Christians in the country remains disproportionately low. During a forum held in Mbour, south of Dakar, on June 10, the organization underscored the need for greater Christian involvement in leadership roles within political parties.
The event, themed “Christian Political Engagement and Leadership,” was attended by key figures including the Minister of Armed Forces, Augustin Tine, and was strategically scheduled ahead of the July 30 legislative elections. MAC 20, established earlier this year to guide Christians in political participation, stressed that while Christians are active in various parties, they lack a cohesive, influential leadership presence.
a call for stronger christian political representation
Emile Daly Diouf, President of MAC 20, articulated the organization’s concerns, stating, “Despite being a minority, we must amplify our political voice to occupy decision-making spaces. Christians must not only participate but lead where critical choices are made.” He emphasized the need for Christians to advocate for their values within the political arena and support candidates who align with their principles. “Our goal is not to field candidates but to back those already engaged, empowering them to rise within their parties and institutions.”
Looking ahead, MAC 20 has not ruled out endorsing presidential candidates in the 2019 elections, signaling a potential shift in how the Christian community could influence national politics.
the stark reality of christian representation in parliament
Hélène Tine, a Christian lawmaker and member of parliament, echoed these concerns, revealing the minimal presence of Christians in Senegal’s political institutions. “As full citizens, we cannot afford to remain on the sidelines of governance. The Church actively encourages us to engage,” she asserted. Tine, one of only three Christian deputies out of 150 in the National Assembly—including just one woman among the 64 female deputies—pointed to systemic barriers preventing Christians from securing winnable positions on electoral lists.
“Our political involvement must intensify. While we excel in community organization, we are noticeably absent from the corridors of power,” she noted. Tine also called for collaborative efforts between Christian communities and political parties to foster diversity, a cornerstone of Senegalese social cohesion that requires continuous nurturing.
