West Africa: Should Africa Limit Presidential Terms? In a democracy, is it justifiable to restrict the number of terms for heads of states? This is a key question that periodically rises to the forefront in a majority of Sub-Saharan Africas rising democracies. This discussion started at different moments in different countries, but arises mostly around the time its incumbents are about to enter their second (and last) term in office. The debate over whether one should limit the mandates of head of states is currently under way with heated fervor in countries such as Burkina Faso, Burundi and both Congos (Congo-Kinshasa and Congo-Brazzaville). This is also a debate that continues, to varying extents, in several countries across the continent - from Benin, Rwanda and Nigeria - and could very well start soon in others, such as Liberia and Sierra Leone, where these heads of states will soon be approaching the end of their last terms. Limiting presidential mandates is imperative if Africas “new” democracies wish to transition into “fully-established” ones. It is important to have a clear and honest discussion over whether term limits can actually hinder or safeguard democracy, because any vagueness or uncertainty here can stir tensions and rouse frustration among many African populations.allafrica/stories/201406241770.html?aa_source=mf-hdlns
Posted on: Wed, 25 Jun 2014 05:29:25 +0000
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