Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has secured a landslide victory in the recent presidential elections, with his party also winning the legislative vote. This election is part of a larger trend of crucial electoral races across Africa this year, with Senegal and South Africa standing out as success stories for democracy, despite challenges faced by their ruling parties. However, incidents of fraud and violence have marred elections in the Comoros and Chad.
The concentration of national elections in 2024 presents an opportunity to assess the state of democracy in Africa and draw important lessons. The risks associated with incumbent races, as seen in Rwanda, highlight the need for safeguards to ensure a fair playing field. The resurgence of military coups in countries such as Mali and Burkina Faso also poses a threat to democratic processes in the region.
Global developments, including the possible re-election of authoritarian leaders in the West, further underscore the importance of supporting civil society and institutions to protect and promote democracy. Senegal and South Africa offer valuable lessons on curbing assaults on democracy through strong civil society, political opposition, and resilient institutions.
Ultimately, the preservation of democracy requires constant vigilance, innovation, and concerted action to nurture democratic values and ensure political alternation through the ballot box. Strong civil society, political parties, and institutions are essential for sustainable democracy in Africa and beyond. The need to strengthen and support these pillars of democracy is crucial in the face of global challenges to democratic norms.
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