Youssou N'Dour announces Senegal presidential bid
Dakar, 03 Jan – (ANA) - Musician Youssou N'Dour has announced he is running in February's presidential elections in Senegal.
"I have listened... and I am responding favourably," Mr N'Dour said on his own TV network, referring to requests that he put himself forward, AFP reports.
Mr N'Dour will run against incumbent Abdoulaye Wade, who is seeking a controversial third term.
Mr Wade's bid and changes he proposed to the constitution have prompted widespread unrest in recent months.
Senegal is seen as one of the most democratic and stable countries in West Africa - it is the only country in the region never to have experienced a military coup.
However, tension is rising ahead of the election and one prominent politician has been charged with murder.
Mr N'Dour said of his candidacy: "It is a supreme patriotic duty.
"It's true, I haven't pursued higher education, but the presidency is a function and not a job.
"I have proved my competence, commitment, rigour and efficiency time and time again. I have studied at the school of the world. Travel teaches as much as books," he added. (ANA)
FA/ANA/03 January 2012--------