afrol News, 3 July - Mauritanian President Cheij Abdellahi Ould Sidi Muhamed has threatened to dissolve the Nouakchott parliament if the national assembly endorses a motion of no-confidence filed earlier this week against his new government.

A one and half months government this week saw 39 deputies from Mauritania's ruling party submitting a motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Yahya Ahmed El Waghev, leader of the National Pact for Democracy and Development (ADIL), saying he did not reflect the will of the electorate.

The Mauritanian President has called on all members of parliament who criticised government to reconsider their position and abandon their plan, saying it was hindering the operation of constitution and jeopardising the stability of the country.

"I fully assume my constitutional responsibilities, including the possibility of the dissolution of the chamber," said Mr Ould Sidi Muhamed in a public speech.

He however also pointed to difficulties accompanying the dissolution of parliament and holding new elections, inviting the political forces of Mauritania to contribute to the possibilities to manoeuvre out of this situation in the country.

Mr Ould Sidi Muhamed said he would consult with the full spectrum of political parties before responding further, with the deputies accusing the executive of failing to produce the required economic and social policy program.

The government-opposing parliamentarians are also calling for a greater share of government posts for the opposition Islamist groupings in the new administration of the country.

The motion would get through the 95 member parliament and succeed to oust the government, if it could get approval of at least 48 lawmakers.

President Ould Sidi Muhamed was elected democratically in 2007 and appointed Mr El Waghev Prime Minister in May this year, seeking to consolidate his political and parliamentary power base as the country faces terrorist attacks and rising food prices.

The Mauritanian parliament today is scheduled to deliberate on when the no-confidence motion should be put to a vote.

By Abdu Ould Abdel Kader

© afrol News

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