In a recent assessment, a leading Senegalese Christian civil society group has highlighted the need for greater political involvement among the country’s Christian community.

The Mouvement autonome chrétien pour le développement durable (MAC 20), established in early 2017 to encourage Christian participation in governance, convened a forum in Mbour, south of Dakar, on June 10. The event, held under the patronage of the Minister of Armed Forces Augustin Tine, coincided with preparations for the parliamentary elections scheduled for July 30 of that year. The gathering centered on the theme: “Christian Political Engagement and Leadership.”

call for stronger christian leadership in politics

Speaking on behalf of the organization, President Emile Daly Diouf stressed the urgency for Christians to step into leadership roles within political parties. “While we represent a minority, we must amplify our political presence and assume decision-making roles,” he stated. “Christians are active in parties, yet we lack a cohesive Christian leadership voice.” He emphasized that believers must strive to occupy positions where key policies are shaped. “Our goal is to empower Christians to speak out on political matters and support religious leaders in shaping policies that reflect our values.”

The MAC 20 does not intend to field its own candidates but plans to endorse political figures who align with its vision. “We aim to support—not propose—candidates. The focus is on helping committed Christians secure roles where they can lead and make an impact,” Diouf explained.

underrepresentation in Senegal’s parliament

Hélène Tine, a Christian lawmaker and vocal advocate for greater political inclusion, echoed these concerns. “As citizens, we cannot remain on the sidelines of national decision-making. The Church actively encourages us to engage,” she said. Reflecting on her own journey, inspired by a call from bishops, she noted the stark disparity: “Though Christians are organized and dynamic in other spheres, our political presence remains limited.”

Of the 150 deputies in Senegal’s National Assembly, only three are Christian—including herself, the sole female Christian among 64 women parliamentarians. “Many Christians appear on party lists but are placed in positions unlikely to secure election,” she observed. “Both the Christian community and political parties must work to foster diversity, a cornerstone of Senegal’s inclusive tradition.”