Lessons from Kenya

The Kenyan Supreme Court recently jolted the global view of African democracy and governance, by nullifying the results of the recent general election in that country and calling for a re-run.

The decision is the first time presidential elections in Africa have ever been nullified and even globally, the ruling is among a few similar decisions globally.  There are very sound reasons why such decisions are not common globally and particularly in Africa, a continent generally struggling with the institutionalisation of democracy and sound governance. Across Africa, ruling political parties often entrench themselves in power by subsuming or suppressing the other estates of government, broadly being the legislature, the judiciary and the press.

Of these estates, the legislature can be captured simply through majority and subsequent constitutional amendments, while the press can be equally muzzled through laws, intimidation, inundation with litigation, drowning out with state media among many means.  It is the judiciary that is the last line of defence for democracy and as a result, the first target of autocratic ruling elites.

Editor's Comment
Congratulations Anicia Gaothuse!

The contest had 10 beautiful young girls as finalists and unfortunately only one could wear the crown.The judges picked Anicia Gaothuse. To all those who feel their contestant should have won ahead of Anicia for whatever reason, hardly; the judges found Anicia to be the best among the best, so desist from disrespecting our newly crowned queen on social media or anywhere else, for that matter! Each of the 10 beautiful young women had supporters...

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