African Elections Face Integrity Concerns

Africa faces persistent challenges with election integrity across several nations. Many countries, while adopting multiparty democracy, struggle with transparent, free, and peaceful elections. The pursuit of political power often leads to manipulation of economic, legal, and legislative systems for personal enrichment, enabling incumbents to maintain control.

Nigeria’s 2023 Election and Judicial Concerns

Nigeria’s 2023 general election was marked by allegations of electoral manipulation by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and concerns about the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The election petition tribunal and Court of Appeal proceedings were met with criticism, with reports of lawyers sleeping during the reading of judgments due to the perceived lack of impartiality. Accusations of bribery and corruption within the judiciary further undermined confidence in the electoral process. The Supreme Court ultimately upheld the APC candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the winner, drawing criticism from international observers.

Ivory Coast’s Presidential Election

In Ivory Coast, the October 2023 presidential election saw incumbent Alassane Ouattara seeking a fourth term following constitutional changes that reset term limits. Despite a decade of relative stability following a 2010-2011 post-electoral crisis, deep political divisions remain. Ouattara, supported by Western nations due to his adherence to economic reforms favored by institutions like the World Bank, secured victory.

Uganda’s Recent Elections and Repression

Uganda’s recent elections, held on Thursday, were characterized by a tense atmosphere and allegations of widespread repression and intimidation. Incumbent Yoweri Museveni, in power for 40 years, sought a seventh term against Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Wine. Reports indicated restricted access to Wine’s residence by security forces, and internet services were cut prior to the election. Al Jazeera documented a campaign marked by harassment and detention of opposition supporters. The final results are expected on Saturday.

Widespread Election Manipulation Across Africa

Similar patterns of election manipulation have been observed in countries like Cameroon, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe, where incumbents have sought to extend their rule. South Africa is considered to have a more transparent democratic process. However, a common thread across many African nations involves the manipulation of electoral management bodies, a compromised judiciary, and the use of state resources to influence outcomes.

Concerns for Nigeria’s 2027 Election

Nigeria faces scrutiny as it prepares for a presidential election in 2027. Concerns exist regarding the potential for manipulation, with the current president allegedly violating electoral laws and influencing the appointment of the new INEC chairman. The writer questions whether the new INEC chairman will prioritize transparency and impartiality.

Standards for Free and Fair Elections

The Carter Center emphasizes that free and fair elections are based on state obligations rooted in international human rights law and involve the absence of fraud, malpractice, and systemic manipulation of the legal framework. These standards are often lacking in many African democracies, including Nigeria.

Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, founder of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) and former National Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria, wrote this article.