A series of elections in Africa has shed new light on the state of democratic governance on the continent. Within a 45-day period, from mid-September to the end of October, several countries held presidential elections, with outcomes that have sparked controversy and raised concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral processes.
In Malawi, the re-election of President Lazarus Chakwera’s opponent, Peter Mutharika, with 56.8% of the vote, was seen as a rare instance of a credible electoral process in Africa. However, this was not the case in other countries. In Cameroon, 92-year-old President Paul Biya secured a seventh term in office with 53.66% of the vote, despite being unable to campaign due to infirmity. The election was marred by controversy, with independent analysts questioning the validity of the results.
In Côte d’Ivoire, President Alassane Ouattara, 83, awarded himself nearly 90% of the vote and a fourth term in office, after barring all credible opposition from participating in the election. The election in Tanzania was marked by violence, with reports of over 5,000 people killed in the aftermath of the vote. President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with 98% of the vote, amidst allegations of a pre-determined outcome.
The African Union and the Southern African Development Community, which deployed official election observer missions to Tanzania, concluded that the election did not comply with their principles. This has led to growing consensus on the need for an independent, international investigation and accountability. Tanzania’s young people are preparing for nationwide protests on December 9, which coincides with World Anti-Corruption Day, the anniversary of the adoption of the Genocide Convention, and Tanzania’s Independence Day.
The outcomes of these elections have significant implications for the stability of the continent and the legitimacy of its leaders. The handling of the aftermath by African leaders and institutions will be closely watched, as the continent grapples with the challenges of democratic governance and the rule of law. With the international community calling for accountability and transparency, the road ahead for Africa’s leaders will be shaped by their response to these electoral controversies.