Presidential succession is one of the most contentious issues in Africa. Although liberal democratic practices defined in the rituals of pluralistic elections have been expanding in Africa, this transition is being challenged by the presidential third-term syndrome. The prospect of a third term is frequently met with suspicion, as it generates intense debates and scrutiny by civil society and the international community. It also raises concerns about the main objectives behind this phenomenon within the context of political pluralism in Africa.
This article focuses on understanding the presidential third-term syndrome in relationship to the claims and values of multiparty democracy. It examines the historical context that gave rise to this phenomenon. Additionally, it analyzes current cultural and political conditions in Africa that continue to support and propagate the third-term syndrome despite some national and international criticism. By doing so, it explores the extent to which the rise of the presidential third-term syndrome reflects a deficit of African multiparty democracy. Finally, it considers the options available to the international community in addressing this phenomenon. |
