Thread by @jsrailton

🇸🇳#Senegal: only peaceful transfers of power since independence!

Rich & rare tradition of #democracy in W. #Africa.

Sadly, past 2 presidents toyed with 3rd terms.

Wade tried in 2012 & triggered violence.

Now Pres. Macky Sall @Macky_Sall flirts with same destructive idea.

I was working from #Senegal in 2012 & saw how far then-President Wade had gone astray from initial high hopes.

Like bringing in North Koreans to erect a pricey monument, then demanding a 35% cut of ticket prices because he felt the idea was his intellectual property.

When Pres. Wade tried to extend his term in 2012, #Senegal's people backed him down.

One opposition figure seen in the streets?

Now-president @Macky_Sall

11 years later, he's considering the same play.

You'd think he would remember the forces his predecessor unleashed.

In case President @Macky_Sall needs a refresher on his predecessor's attempt to do a 3rd term...

People died.

Many more were injured.

And #Senegal came dangerously close to discarding its unique democratic credibility & position in West Africa.

Hoping @Macky_Sall @PR_Senegal hears @BarackObama's message.

Back in 2012, the #Obama administration's efforts helped dissuade Wade from bad choices & more violence in #Senegal.

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