How Africa’s power politics became a high stakes affair
Supporters of eSwatini opposition candidate for the September 29, 2023 legislative elections Nomalungelo Simelane, also called LaZwide, dance during a gathering in Siphofafeni, on September 27, 2023.
What happens to a democracy when the price of running for office climbs faster than the ability of ordinary citizens to pay it? This was the key question this week when experts gathered in Accra to discuss the mounting cost of political leaders, even as people try to defend the relevance of democracy.
Most countries in Africa hold regular elections. Picture Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria and Tanzania, all who hold regular polls to elect office holders for parliament, presidency and even municipal elections. Yet, over the years after the second liberation that mostly ended sing-party politics or military juntas, Africans continue to grapple with costs that lock out most people from contesting.
