Term limits evasions undermine democratic governance

Friday, December 22, 2023 | 30 Views |

Term limit evasions are at the root of a host of governance dysfunctions in Africa and are linked to higher levels of autocracy, corruption, conflict, and propensity for coups. Extra-constitutional extensions of power have shaped the contours of Africa’s governance landscape in recent years.

It is disheartening to state that leaders of 14 African countries have held onto power for more than two terms after evading term limits. This continues a pattern of term limit evasion observed since 2015, reversing an evolving trend of term limit adherence between 2000 and 2015.

Another eight African countries have endured military coups that suspended or disrupted their constitutions since 2015.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

Ukrainian service members fire a shell from a towed howitzer FH-70 at a front line, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in Donbas Region, Ukraine July 18, 2022. REUTERS/Gleb Garanich

Three Batswana injured, one captured, 15 missing in Russia–Ukraine war

Larona Makhaiza | 1 h ago

Embrace UDC direct members, BNF faithfuls urged

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | 1 h ago

BNF leaders warn against indiscipline

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | 2 h ago

BNF bows to cadre deployment pressure

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | 2 h ago

Two die in road mishap between Kumaga, Rakops

Pini Bothoko | 2 h ago

Molepolole woman kills brother over debt

Pini Bothoko | 2 h ago

Police seek family of unidentified dead man

Pini Bothoko | 2 h ago

Banana ginger pancakes

Mitchelle Phetlhe | 2 h ago

Diplomatic relations must be on equal footing

“Let us never negotiate out of fear.But let us never fear to negotiate”– John F. KennedySupport for healthcare, education, skills and infrastructure can improve lives. The reaffirmed commitment to the Mmopane–Block 8 road is welcome for the prospect of better transport links for surrounding communities.China has shown willingness to assist Botswana, and government deserves credit for securing these commitments. However, the success of our...

Mmegi Editor | 23 October 2026

About us

Mmegi is the leading independent source of breaking news, latest news, current
affairs, Politics, Business, Sport, debates, analysis, and entertainment news in Botswana.

Term limits evasions undermine democratic governance

Term limit evasions are at the root of a host of governance dysfunctions in Africa and are linked to higher levels of autocracy, corruption, conflict, and propensity for coups. Extra-constitutional extensions of power have shaped the contours of Africa’s governance landscape in recent years.

Explore

More

Three Batswana injured, one captured, 15 missing in Russia–Ukraine war

Embrace UDC direct members, BNF faithfuls urged

BNF leaders warn against indiscipline

BNF bows to cadre deployment pressure

Two die in road mishap between Kumaga, Rakops

Molepolole woman kills brother over debt

Police seek family of unidentified dead man

Banana ginger pancakes

Diplomatic relations must be on equal footing