Regular change of Governments In Africa Is "For The English To See!"


Westphalian system in Africa established mechanisms of centralizing power, order and organization through the following pillars: upholding geographic boundaries, liberty, life, pursuance of happiness, freedom of speech, governance, religion, mobility, countries trade with each other without fear of belligerence, internal strife, holding regular elections and changing governments. 

The countries do not interfere in affairs of other countries unless given permission to. In this system, states were the legitimately recognized actors and could negotiate as sovereigns. 

A study into how regularly change of governments is exercised in Africa finds that:

 1) most governments change after battles, civil unrest 

2) in only a few cases governments hold regular elections where power is transferred to incoming government

3) in many cases governments hold regular elections but power remains in same hands

4) some countries in Africa are semi-formal states and have never held elections. 

Two factors are significant in upholding the principle of regular change of government: 

1) significantly powerful institutions such as the executive, military, judiciary, legislature, civil service, social services and civil society organization 

2) well mobilized, resourced and politically conscious population believing in regular elections and change of government. Support by population is indicated by majority participation in party politics and voting. The strength of institutions is measured by non interference, smooth operation, participation by the people in use of services and enjoyment of freedoms.

 The notion of holding regular elections and change of governments has little or no effect on legitimacy of states in Africa. Most states remain consolidated using other mechanisms different from what one sees in Europe or USA. In Europe or USA, people retire, resign or transition to areas where they can be productive. In  Africa, the notion of "retiring" someone means there has to be a motivation: One has to have a reliable pension; one could have saved a nest of eggs to subsist upon in old age; or one has a large support network in form of relatives and friends to support old age. 

 It is no wonder that leaders in various positions hang on to their posts until perhaps an act of God happens! Some countries go through the election motions "for the English to see!" It is clear that elections and regular change of government are just ornamental. The true mark of beneficial states should be how people feel the connection with the state structures such as those delivering social services. 

 True Westphalian models are far and wide in Africa. If you are one to ask why there seems to be no "order" in Africa, one explanation is the need to redesign the three tier power structure (executive, judiciary and legislative) which in its current state in most African countries is limiting so much potential for representation. The power structure should allow wider inclusivity so that representation addresses parity and equality. Resources to facilitate running of the structures should be provided so that service delivery is met.




Source: Google

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