Democratization In Africa

Julius Ihonvbere on March 12th, 2009

…the nature of society, existing contradictions and opportunities, power balances and societal values can determine whether the imbued leadership qualities can be nurtured, subverted or simply negated or ignored. Leadership can be individual or collective. Either way, the purpose of leadership at home, work or anywhere for that matter is to exercise power, provide direction, encourage and inspire others, show the right direction, build appropriate legacies for the future generation, and work for the common or public good.

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Julius Ihonvbere on July 26th, 2008

Our discussion today would focus on the new politics of constitutionalism and democratization in Africa and Nigeria. While my focus would be on Nigeria, I would draw lessons from other African states. Critical aspects of our discussion would focus on the nature, character and politics of the Nigerian ruling class though one could legitimately ask: Is the so-called ruling class actually ruling? Or is it just governing? We would focus also on the nature and composition and character of the Nigerian state.

Continue reading about Constitutionalism and Democratization in Africa

Julius Ihonvbere on July 12th, 2008

Most (transitions in Africa) have turned out to be false starts; the democratization has often been shallow…But the pressures for democratization are so strong that for most of Africa it is no longer a question of whether there will be a democratic transition but when. – Claude Ake
The current wave of political liberalization in Africa [...]

Continue reading about The state, constitutionalism and democratization in Africa