Answer to Question #313157 in Political Science for Justina

Question

Are some politicians in Africa viewed as mini god(s)? If so, how can we begin to change the way our leaders lead?

Answer 1

Yes, some politicians are viewed as mini gods such as Teodoro Obiang of Equatorial Guinea, Jose Eduardo dos Santos of Angola, Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame among others. They have reduced leadership in their nations to personal interests and the leaders have taken the international community’s desire for stability and continuity as a sign that they need to stay in power indefinitely. Constitutional manipulations are the most common method for prolonging presidential term limits to continue being worshipped in power.

No person on the continent should be viewed as immortal by their peers or indeed by themselves. Leaders need to respect their constitutions and see amendments to prolong power as infringements of democratic principles. Africa cannot build democratic countries without democratic leaders and constitutions which are upheld by all, with leaders that are held accountable.

The governance of a nation should never be reduced to an individual. Constitutional term limits are a tool that helps to ensure the periodic turn-over of power. When disregarded, there is an increased risk of the emergence of electoral dictatorships or incumbents becoming pseudo-monarchs. The constitution should always be respected to safeguard against autocracy.