The African continent, rich in diversity and culture, has been overshadowed by a legacy of political instability. Since the wave of independence in the 1960s, Africa has witnessed a troubling number of coups, notably in nations such as Burkina Faso, Guinea, Chad, Mali, and Sudan. This unsettling trend often traces back to a central issue: the reluctance of leaders to relinquish power. One radical yet potentially transformative solution lies in adopting a two-year presidential term limit.
The narrative of African politics has frequently been marred by leaders who overstay their welcome. From Gabon’s Ali Bongo’s family’s 55-year rule to leaders in Uganda, Cameroon, and Egypt, the manipulation or interpretation of constitutions to extend tenures is a common plot. These actions sow seeds of division, frustration, and unrest, creating fertile ground for political upheaval and coups.
However, not all is gloomy. There are nations like Ghana, Kenya, and Liberia that shine as examples of what’s achievable when leaders adhere to term limits. This adherence doesn’t just foster political diversity and competition but ensures that power, and the ideas it ushers in, remains dynamic and rejuvenated.
Introducing a two-year term might seem untraditional, given the four or five-year standards seen globally. Yet, for Africa, it could offer several unique advantages:
- Leaders would feel the pressure to deliver promises promptly, ensuring swift accountability.
- Regular elections would instill and reinforce a democratic culture, reducing the allure of coups.
- The short timeframe would deter leaders from embedding themselves too deeply in power, diminishing the temptation to tweak constitutions for extended rule.
Yet, for such a drastic change to take root, Africa’s regional body, the African Union (AU), must play a more decisive role. While the AU has commendably stood against military coups, its response to constitutional manipulations has been lukewarm at best. This duality undermines its goal of a consistent democratic culture across Africa. An assertive AU, backing the two-year term mandate, can act as a bulwark against leaders who seek to overextend their rule.
The ultimate barometer for any democratic shift is the voice of its citizens. And the people of Africa have spoken. A 2015 survey spanning 34 African nations revealed a staggering 75% in favor of two-term presidential limits. This overwhelming majority is a clarion call for change, for evolution, and for a brighter democratic future.
While the two-year presidential term might seem like a bold step, it might just be the change Africa needs. With the support of a revitalized AU and the undeniable voice of its people, this shift could herald a new era of stability, prosperity, and genuine democracy for the continent.
Image Credit: ORTN/Reuters
