TIME TO RETHINK SYSTEMS OF GOVERNANCE

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

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