Tanzania’s October poll shows that elections are purely performative for governments which do not adhere to the basic tenets of democracy.
Supporters attend a Chama Cha Mapinduzi rally in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in 2015 when John Magufuli was first elected.
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Magufuli took a populist approach in trying to woo voters away from an invigorated opposition, and when that didn’t work he reported to oppressive tactics.
African National Congress treasurer Paul Mashatile wants more money for political parties from the government.
Antonio Muchave/Sowetan/Gallo Images/Getty Images)
Since parties always need money, forcing them to depend on private funders means throwing them into the hands of donors who will demand favours for their cash.
President John Magufuli has closed down all the reliable means to evaluate allegations of foul play.
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As key opposition members lose seats in their strongholds, it is clear that Tanzania’s ruling party is set to establish a super-majority that will institute a deeper authoritarian agenda.
A woman casts her ballot in Victoria, Seychelles in 2016.
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For all of the shortcomings of Nyerere’s regime, his ideas continue to inspire Tanzanians fighting for a more equal and democratic future, over 20 years after his death.
A campaign poster of John Magufuli of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party who is seeking re-election as president in October.
Ericky Boniphace/AFP via Getty Images)
International observation will not insulate controversial polls – such as Tanzania’s in October – from malpractices, but will make them less likely and allow them to be exposed.
Failure to campaign due to COVID-19 has fuelled calls to synchronise polls.
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Citizens have been denied their right to elect officials at the grassroots and this has allowed the central government to maintain rigid control of the country’s regions.
Tundu Lissu reacts to supporters as he returns home after three years in exile.
Far from the myth of the omnipotent father of the nation, big man or dictator, the Kenyan presidential system was built on divisions and uncertainty.
Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara attends a ceremony to mark the 60th anniversary of the country’s independence from France on August 7.
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The success of Malawi’s democratic dispensation will be measured on the extent to which it delivers public goods – opportunities, development, accountability – for the people.
Former President Mwai Kibaki [centre] smiles after being handed the new constitution document by former Attorney General, Amos Wako [right] in 2010.
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For democracy to work in Kenya the country needs good leadership. Politicians must uphold the constitution to infuse trust and confidence in state institutions.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised inclusive decision-making informed by scientific evidence. Such an approach would serve to depoliticise and rationalise decision-making.
President Pierre Nkurunziza arrives to inaugurate Burundi’s Chinese-built state house on September 27, 2019.
(Photo by ONESPHORE NibigIra/AFP via Getty Images)