The Crisis of Democracy in Africa: A Continent at a Crossroads
The recent spate of military takeovers in Africa has raised concerns about the efficacy of democracy on the continent.
Despite the adoption of democratic systems, many African countries continue to grapple with poor governance, corruption, and human rights abuses.
The question on everyone’s mind is: has democracy brought positive results or negative consequences to Africa?
The signs are not encouraging. Elections are often marred by massive rigging, the rule of law is replaced by kangaroo justice or orders from above, and corruption is rampant.
Human rights abuses are committed with impunity, and poverty and inequality continue to plague the continent. The standard of living is low, and quality services are a luxury for many.
The connection between electoral rigging and military takeovers is clear. Both are forms of stolen mandates, with one using the ballot and the other the barrel of a gun.
As a matter of emphasis, there are countries in Africa whose elections results were never published or accessed by the public – as the case of my country, Sierra Leone.
The recent coups in Mali, Niger, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and now Guinea Bissau are stark reminders of this reality.
For democracy to take root in Africa, strong institutions and the rule of law must replace strong men and women.
Corruption must be seen as unacceptable taboo, and quality services and equal opportunities must be available to all citizens, not just a select few.
The international community must support African countries in building robust democratic institutions, promoting transparency and accountability, and protecting human rights.
Can their double standards match with this solemn call?
The people of Africa deserve better than the status quo. It’s time for a new era of democracy that truly serves the needs of all Africans.
The recent military takeover in Guinea-Bissau has resulted in the arrest of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, with the military declaring “total control” of the country.
The military, led by Brigadier-General Denis N’Canha, claims to have uncovered a plan to destabilize the country involving national drug lords and has taken over the leadership of the country until further notice.
The international community, including the two “puppet shows” on the continent ECOWAS and AU, has condemned the coup and called for the restoration of constitutional order.
Can the junta leaders listen to a cohort of institutions that “support” electoral rigging but condemn coups?
What are your thoughts?
©️ Photo depicting military leaders in Guinea-Bissau.
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Abass Sesay is a journalist and development analyst. He’s a graduate in Development Studies (undergrad) and Corporate Governance, Governance and Leadership (postgraduate).
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