Elections in Africa: A 45-Day Window into a Changing Political Landscape
The recent convergence of elections in a 45-day period has illuminated the fragile state of democracy in Africa, challenging the hollow rituals that have characterized the continent's electoral processes. This series of events may have profound implications for Africa's stability, as the responses of leaders and institutions will be pivotal.
Malawi's Reaffirmation of Democracy
Malawi's 2019 election results were so blatantly manipulated that it took five judges in bulletproof vests to overturn them, marking only the second time in African history that a court nullified a presidential election outcome. This led to a 2020 re-run, where Lazarus Chakwera defeated the incumbent, Peter Mutharika. However, in the 2025 election, Mutharika, at 85, made a surprising comeback, defeating Chakwera, who had lost much of his initial support.
Cameroon's Elder Statesman
In Cameroon, the 2025 election saw the 92-year-old incumbent, Paul Biya, secure a seventh term. Biya has been in government since 1964 and ascended to the presidency in 1982. Despite his age and inability to campaign, he was declared the winner with 53.66% of the vote, a result disputed by independent analysts. This outcome raises questions about the credibility of the electoral process, especially with the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, calling for an impartial investigation into post-electoral violence.
Côte d'Ivoire's Self-Awarded Victory
In Côte d'Ivoire, the incumbent, Alassane Ouattara, ran virtually unopposed, awarding himself nearly 90% of the vote and a fourth term in office. This was despite being term-limited after two terms and barring credible competition. Ouattara, born in 1942, is expected to rule until he is 88, a stark contrast to the median age of the country's population.
Tanzania's Bloody Election
The Tanzanian election on October 29th was marred by violence and controversy. The incumbent, Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed office after the death of John Pombe Magufuli, ensured her candidacy was unopposed through a campaign of terror. On election day, protests erupted, and the government imposed a media blackout and internet shutdown. Hassan's government was accused of orchestrating mass murder in opposition strongholds, with initial estimates of hundreds of casualties quickly rising to over 3,000, and some reports suggesting a death toll exceeding 10,000. The African Union and the Southern African Development Community, in a rare move, both declared that the election did not comply with AU principles, casting doubt on Hassan's legitimacy. This has sparked calls for an independent international investigation and accountability, with Tanzanian youth planning protests on World Anti-Corruption Day, which coincides with the country's Independence Day.
These elections, occurring within a short span, highlight the diverse challenges facing African democracies. From the reaffirmation of democratic values in Malawi to the controversial outcomes in Cameroon and Côte d'Ivoire, and the violent election in Tanzania, the continent's political landscape is at a crossroads. But here's where it gets controversial: are these events isolated incidents or indicative of a broader trend in African politics? What does the future hold for democracy in Africa, and what role should international bodies play in ensuring fair and transparent elections?
The opinions expressed in this article are a reflection of the author's perspective, inviting readers to engage in a dialogue about the state of democracy in Africa.
