The Attrition of Democratic Gains in Africa: An Appraisal

Since the reintroduction of multiparty democracy in early 1990s, governments in Africa have established measures and mechanisms to institutionalise and consolidate democracy. International community and local non-governmental organizations have been at the forefront in supporting democratisation initiatives by governments. Despite the efforts, there are structural factors that impede institutionalisation and consolidation of democracy. This paper therefore, seeks to offer a critical analysis of the factors that are contributing to the erosion of democracy. Country examples are highlighted to support the thesis of the paper. The paper uses historical trajectory to demonstrate how patronage, ethnicity, electoral authoritarianism and extension of presidential term limit erodes democratic gains in Africa. The paper concludes that in order for democracy to flourish in African, structural impediments to democracy need to be addressed. Keywords: Democracy, Term Limit, Electoral Authoritarianism, Ethnicity, Electoral Violenc

THE ATTRITION OF DEMOCRATIC GAINS IN AFRICA: AN APPRAISAL

Since the reintroduction of multiparty democracy in early 1990s, governments in Africa have established measures and mechanisms to institutionalize and consolidate democracy. International community and local non-governmental organizations have been in the forefront in supporting initiatives by governments. Despite the efforts, there are structural factors that impede institutionalization and consolidation of democracy. This paper therefore, seeks to offer a critical analysis of the factors that are contributing to the erosion of democracy. Country examples are highlighted to support the thesis of the paper. The paper uses historical trajectory to demonstrate how patronage, ethnicity, electoral authoritarianism and extension of presidential term limit erodes democratic gains in Africa. The paper concludes that in order for democracy to flourish in Africa, the structural factors need to be addressed. Key Words: Democracy, Term Limit, Electoral Authoritarianism, Ethnicity, Electoral Violence 

China and Africa’s Peace and Security Agenda: The Burgeoning Appetite

China and Africa have had contacts since time immemorial. It is, however, in the last two decades that China vastly increased its engagement with Africa, following the first Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) that took place in 2000 and the Beijing Summit held in 2006. China has skillfully utilized its international strategy of multipolarity and non-interference to champion its economic interests as well as its hegemonic quest. It is undeniable that China has heavily invested in Africa through Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), and infrastructure development. China has also increased its appetite on matters peace and security. Premised on the latter, the paper interrogates China’s involvement in issues of peace and security in Africa. Areas of engagement and motives and consequences of engagement are discussed