African democracy at the crossroads: A call to protect electoral integrity and promote good governance
International IDEA expresses deep concern over recent elections in Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Tanzania that have raised serious questions about electoral integrity, human rights and regional stability. In all three countries, incumbents entrenched themselves in power through autocratic tactics including the imprisonment, disqualification and forced disappearances of opponents, as well as violent state responses to public protests during the elections.
In Cameroon, 92-year-old President Paul Biya won an eighth term in the 12 October presidential elections, triggering widespread demonstrations in which several protesters were killed by security forces.
In Côte d’Ivoire, incumbent President Alassane Ouattara won a fourth term in office on 25 October, in elections marred by protests and the disqualification of his main opponents.
In Tanzania, presidential and general elections on 29 October saw the detention and disqualification of opposition figures, restrictions on civil society and media, and the deaths of hundreds of protesters as security forces were deployed in the streets.
International IDEA strongly condemns the violent responses to protests and deplores the loss of civilian lives in these countries.
Africa’s demographic dynamism and democratic potential remain a source of hope for the continent. National and regional authorities must initiate steps towards dialogues and political and legal reforms that consolidate democracy, rule of law and good governance, which are also crucial to spur economic development and social progress. We encourage parliaments to strengthen their oversight functions and promote the inclusion of all citizens.
International IDEA welcomes steps by the African Union and respective Regional Economic Communities to strengthen the continent’s collective commitment to democratic governance. More needs to be done at both continental and regional levels to protect and safeguard citizens’ rights to vote, freedom of assembly, and the rule of law. We urge governments to recommit and adhere to their regional and international obligations, particularly the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance and other regional protocols and instruments.
Finally, we commend civil society groups and African youth for their courage and persistence in advocating for democratic reforms, despite increasing restrictions. They are the beating heart of democracy: its greatest champions and its greatest hope.
