Times Of Swaziland: TIME TO RETHINK SYSTEMS OF GOVERNANCE

TIME TO RETHINK SYSTEMS OF GOVERNANCE
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Editor on 28/11/2024 12:22:00


Sir,
As a concerned African, I feel compelled to express my views on the governance
systems that have been imposed upon our great continent. The multiparty
democracy system, while well-intentioned, has often led to unnecessary conflicts
and unrest across Africa. In contrast, I believe that a hybrid system of
governance offers a more peaceful and stable alternative.
In my opinion, the hybrid system is more beneficial to Africans when considering
our unique cultural, historical and institutional contexts. It provides a more
balanced and representative form of governance, which in turn reduces the
likelihood of conflicts and unrest.
On the other hand, the multiparty democracy system has led to devastating
consequences in many African countries. For instance, the 2007 post-election
violence in Kenya resulted in over 1 000 deaths and the displacement of hundreds
of thousands of people. Similarly, the 2010 Ivorian presidential election crisis
in Côte d’Ivoire led to over 3 000 deaths and the destruction of entire
communities.
In Liberia, the 2003 civil war, which was partly fuelled by political rivalries
and ethnic divisions, resulted in the deaths of over 250 000 people and the
displacement of countless more. More recently, the 2020 Ethiopian civil
conflict, sparked by political tensions and ethnic divisions, has resulted in
the deaths of thousands and the displacement of millions.
Examples
These examples highlight the darker side of multiparty democracy in Africa,
where political rivalries and ethnic divisions can quickly escalate into deadly
conflicts. It’s time for us to consider a different approach, one that
prioritises peace, harmony and the well-being of our citizens. Eswatini serves
as a shining example of how a hybrid system can be adapted to suit the needs of
its citizens. By striking a balance between power and representation, this
system has shown that it can foster greater stability, prosperity and peace. I
urge fellow Africans to consider the benefits of a hybrid system and to explore
ways in which it can be tailored to meet the specific needs of our individual
nations. It’s time for us to rethink our governance systems and choose a path
that leads to peace, stability and prosperity for all.
Simon Mamba