Former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently voiced concerns about the efficacy of Western-style democracy in Africa, suggesting it doesn’t align with the continent’s needs. Speaking at a high-level consultation in Abeokuta, Obasanjo called for an ‘Afro democracy’ that reflects African societies more accurately.
Obasanjo argued that the Western democratic model fails to represent the majority’s views, resulting in governance by a selected few. He stressed the need for a system that fully represents all people, critiquing the current model’s design and implementation. “We need to define and design our system rather than continue with one that isn’t working for us,” he stated.
This sentiment was echoed by former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, who noted the challenges faced by liberal democracy in Africa, particularly in delivering developmental outcomes. However, Paul Ejime, a global affairs analyst, provided a different perspective, asserting that it’s not democracy failing Africa but rather Africa failing democracy.
Ejime’s remarks came in the context of the recent Liberian presidential election, where former Vice President Joseph Boakai defeated incumbent George Weah. He praised the election’s transparency and the trust Liberians showed in the electoral process. “Democracy is growing when people trust their electoral commission,” Ejime said, emphasizing the need for a trustworthy electoral umpire and an independent judiciary and legislature.
According to a report by The Guardian, Ejime also highlighted the importance of George Weah’s concession, noting its significance for Liberia and the broader ECOWAS region.
Amidst these discussions, ActionAid Nigeria raised concerns over electoral integrity in Nigeria. The organization pointed to irregularities in recent off-cycle elections in Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo, including violence and vote-buying. They called for a post-election audit to improve future electoral processes.
Additionally, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, spoke about Africa’s role in global politics at a seminar in Lagos. He emphasized the need for unity, solidarity, and integration to enhance Africa’s global presence. Discussing Nigeria’s relationship with Korea, Osaghae highlighted the benefits of global partnerships.
This debate on democracy in Africa comes at a crucial time as nations across the continent reassess their political systems and international relationships, seeking models that better suit their unique contexts and aspirations.
