What Divided African Democracies Can Teach America

The article examines the potential for electoral violence in democracies, particularly drawing lessons from African countries. It emphasizes the significance of the losers’ acceptance of outcomes, the integrity of electoral processes, and the role of civil society. Key examples, including those from Ethiopia, Gambia, and Nigeria, highlight the necessity for transparent governance structures and community engagement to foster trust and prevent violence during elections.

Elections in many regions, particularly in Africa, seldom constitute mere celebratory events but often present considerable challenges fraught with anxiety and potential violence. The decision regarding whether elections will culminate in chaos often hinges on the willingness of the defeated parties to acquiesce to the outcome. This acceptance is intrinsically linked to their faith in the democratic process and their perceptions of electoral integrity. If those who lose maintain the conviction that the election was conducted fairly and that victors will not exploit their success to favor allies and marginalize opponents, the likelihood of violence diminishes significantly. The United States, observed through the lens of the January 6, 2021, Capitol incident, is not exempt from this reality; rather, it is illustrative of divisions that can lead to election-related violence. Lessons can be drawn from Ethiopia’s electoral experiences. As the nation approached its 2020 elections, it became apparent that the ruling administration had employed state mechanisms to suppress opposition in vital regions such as Tigray and Oromia. Discontent erupted when several opposition members were murdered, leading to a widespread boycott from parties unwilling to trust the electoral process. Ethiopia’s reliance on ethnic identity as a foundation for its political and constitutional frameworks exacerbates internal rivalries, increasing tensions during elections. Political factions often adopt extreme positions to outperform rivals, fostering an atmosphere ripe for violence. When the ruling party postponed elections under the pretext of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of an effective mechanism to resolve electoral disputes heightened the conflicts, ultimately resulting in a significant regional war. Meanwhile, in Gambia, the fracturing of an opposition coalition prior to the 2021 elections heightened fears of violent upheaval. The resultant collaboration among political stakeholders, alongside civil society organizations, succeeded in fostering a more peaceful electoral climate. This underscores the significance of active civil society involvement and established agreements to mitigate electoral violence. Nigeria’s repeated cycles of electoral strife highlight the precarious nature of its democracy. The 2023 elections witnessed only 27% voter participation, reflecting a profound lack of trust in the electoral system. Local initiatives are essential to strengthen interrelations between the community and electoral institutions, thereby enhancing confidence and reducing the potential for violence in politically charged environments. Historically, elections have emerged as inadequate tools for resolving deeply rooted societal divisions. Political elites often prioritize capturing governmental power over finding consensus solutions, leading to an increase in election-related violence. As such, it becomes critical to address foundational societal disputes prior to engaging in electoral processes, steering clear of winner-takes-all approaches. Ultimately, to stave off electoral violence, there is an urgent need for robust electoral frameworks and vigilant societal engagement, ensuring fairness and legitimacy. Designing proportional systems, encouraging inclusive governance, and promoting civic education are crucial steps towards nurturing a peaceful and democratic society, particularly in contexts where political competition has profound implications on social stability. In conclusion, the lessons that can be garnered from African democracies underscore the importance of upholding electoral integrity and fostering broad political consensus. By prioritizing inclusive governance structures and civic engagement, countries facing similar electoral dilemmas may navigate towards more stable democratic landscapes.

The article discusses the dynamics of election-related violence, particularly in the context of African democracies, and its implications for the United States. It highlights that electoral violence can stem from the losers’ lack of consent regarding election outcomes and their perception of fairness within the democratic framework. The piece draws upon specific examples from Ethiopia, Gambia, and Nigeria, illustrating how political manipulation, ethnic identity politics, and the necessity of civil society involvement can influence electoral processes. The author advocates for reforming electoral systems to promote fairness and inclusivity, aiming to reduce political violence and enhance democracy.

In closing, the analysis posits that the prevention of electoral violence is deeply interconnected with the broader political context. Establishing transparency, fairness, and trust in electoral systems, alongside fostering a conscientious citizenry, is essential for thwarting potential discord. By learning from African experiences, particularly in terms of inclusive governance and civil society collaboration, democratic nations, particularly the U.S., can aspire to a more stable and equitable electoral landscape.

Original Source: foreignpolicy.com