Africa elections spark outrage and calls for accountability

A series of elections in Africa over a 45‑day span—from mid‑September to the end of October—has highlighted the state of democratic governance on the continent. Several countries held presidential votes whose outcomes have sparked controversy and raised concerns about electoral legitimacy.

In Malawi, the re‑election of President Lazarus Chakwera’s opponent, Peter Mutharika, with 56.8 % of the vote, was hailed as a rare instance of a credible electoral process in Africa. By contrast, other contests fell far short of such standards. In Cameroon, 92‑year‑old President Paul Biya secured a seventh term with 53.66 % of the vote despite being unable to campaign because of infirmity. Independent analysts questioned the validity of those results, casting doubt on the election’s integrity.

In Côte d’Ivoire, 83‑year‑old President Alassane Ouattara awarded himself nearly 90 % of the vote and a fourth term after barring all credible opposition from participating. Tanzania’s election was marked by violence, with reports of over 5,000 people killed in its aftermath. President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with 98 % of the vote amid allegations of a pre‑determined outcome. The African Union and the Southern African Development Community, which sent official observer missions to Tanzania, concluded that the election did not comply with their principles, prompting calls for an independent international investigation and accountability.

Tanzania’s youth are preparing for nationwide protests on 9 December, a date that coincides with World Anti‑Corruption Day, the anniversary of the Genocide Convention’s adoption, and Tanzania’s Independence Day. The outcomes of these elections have significant implications for the continent’s stability and the legitimacy of its leaders. How African leaders and institutions handle the aftermath will be closely watched as the continent grapples with challenges to democratic governance and the rule of law. With the international community demanding accountability and transparency, the road ahead for Africa’s leaders will be shaped by their response to these electoral controversies.