Democracy in Africa

swingdog

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There's a few interesting things happening at the moment across the continent that suggest the undermining of old autocratic orders. Thought it might be good to have them gathered together to discuss. Much more interesting than domestic disputes in the US, which dominate the news.

Disputed election in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the Catholic Church is taking a stand. Kudos to the Financial Times for some outstanding reporting and vote counting:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2...republic-congo-dc-delay-election-announcement

Mass demonstrations in Sudan as fuel and food shortages kick-in, dictatorship looking wobbly:
https://www.france24.com/en/20190117-sudan-reinforces-khartoum-ahead-march

Similar in Zimbabwe, where the newly elected government thought a good way to deal with fuel shortages was to increase prices so much that ordinary people wouldn't be able to afford it. Police and army now going door to door to beat up protesters:
https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/01/1...nangagwa-southern-africa-fuel-price-protests/

And it's election year in South Africa. ANC likely to win but perhaps this might be the last time they are in a majority:
https://www.iol.co.za/capeargus/news/polls-show-anc-dominating-2019-elections-18732126
 

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swingdog

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Well now the constitutional court in Congo has rolled over (was stacked with Kabila appointees) and ratified what appears to be a very dodgy vote. Opposition not accepting the result.

In Zimbabwe, government seems to have dressed up some thugs in uniforms, given them weapons and let them loose on the streets. Pics on twitter not at all pretty. Good feed to follow - activist who has had to flee the country: https://twitter.com/Mamoxn
 
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