#democracy

According to Marindoti Oludare, the essence of democracy extends beyond the ballot, which is merely a tool. The article discusses how Nigeria's opposition may be undermining democracy more than the government they oppose, emphasizing the importance of a free and open contest of competing ideas.

Chris Hedges examines the 250-year history of US independence, focusing on the nation's founding ideals, inherent contradictions, and its current state. The reflection considers how these elements have shaped the American experience and the ongoing experiment of democracy in the country.

Political parties frequently announce unity after primary elections, but the aftermath often reveals their internal challenges. According to Leadership (NG), while primaries aim to enhance democracy by enabling members to select candidates, they also create winners and losers, resulting in unfulfilled ambitions, broken alliances, and ongoing grievances.

Tanzania has reinstated a ban on political rallies as of June 2026, marking the second such prohibition in a decade. The initial ban was enacted by former President John Magufuli in 2016, while his successor, President Samia Hassan, had lifted it in 2023 as part of a reform agenda. Dan Paget, who has extensively documented Tanzania's democracy movement, discusses the implications of this renewed restriction on political communication through mass rallies.

In an interview with Yetunde Ajanaku, Bolanle Aminat Sarumi-Aliyu, a politician and former governorship candidate, discusses her political journey, the challenges she has faced, and her ongoing commitment to public service. She emphasizes that democracy cannot flourish if financial resources continue to dictate electoral success, highlighting the need for a more equitable political landscape.

Concerns regarding Nigeria's multi-party democracy have intensified due to recent court rulings impacting smaller political parties. These parties are worried that ongoing legal disputes and threats of deregistration may hinder their ability to participate in the upcoming 2027 general elections. This situation has sparked renewed discussions about political inclusion, constitutional rights, and the viability of Nigeria's multi-party system, according to Leadership (NG).

Uba Sani has publicly endorsed Tinubu, emphasizing the importance of sincere public debate in democracy. He argues that such discourse strengthens democratic societies by allowing citizens and commentators to rigorously examine ideas and public policy, according to ThisDay Live.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission has committed to enhancing measures to combat election rigging and vote buying, emphasizing the importance of credible elections for the integrity of Nigeria's democracy.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised alarms regarding the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore, labeling it a threat to Nigeria's democracy. His comments came after a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore's remand in Kuje Prison pending further proceedings.

Malong Awan discusses the interconnectedness of East Africa's challenges, including aid, youth labor, democracy, and cross-border trade. He suggests that this interdependence could foster mutual support and collaboration among the nations in the region, as highlighted in an interview with The Elephant.

In 2026, reports have emerged regarding third-country migrant deportations from the United States to African nations, primarily highlighted by journalists and NGOs. On April 18, a group of 15 individuals from South America arrived in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, after being deported from the US, with their destination revealed only a day prior to their departure.

According to Tanzania Affairs, the general election in Tanzania on October 29, 2025, was anticipated to be problematic, but the extent of the ensuing turmoil was unexpected. The aftermath of the elections has raised concerns about the state of democracy in the country.