2024 African Elections: A Year of Political Shifts

Last year’s votes showed a mix of resilience and fragility in governance systems, reflecting the complexities of political transitions.

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The year 2024 marked a critical juncture for African democracies, with 13 out of the 17 scheduled elections taking place across the continent. These elections showcased a mix of resilience and fragility in governance systems, reflecting the complexities of political transitions in diverse contexts. While some ruling parties extended their grip on power, others faced significant challenges and surprising defeats.

As the dust settles, the outcomes provide key insights into the state of democracy in Africa, highlighting both progress and areas that require urgent reform. Below is an overview of these elections, grouped by where ruling parties retained control and where the opposition claimed victory, followed by a reflection on the broader lessons learned from this remarkable year.

Ruling Parties Retain Power

In Rwanda, President Paul Kagame, who has been in power since 2000, secured another term with nearly 100% of the vote. While his supporters credit him for Rwanda’s recovery and development post-genocide, critics raised concerns over the lack of political freedoms and questioned the credibility of such an overwhelming result.

Mozambique’s Frelimo party continued its nearly 50-year dominance with President Daniel Chapo’s election. The process, however, was marred by allegations of electoral fraud and protests, reflecting the deeply entrenched power structures in the country.

Namibia’s ruling party SWAPO retained control, making history by electing Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the country’s first female president. Yet, the elections were not without controversy, as technical difficulties and accusations of irregularities highlighted challenges in election management.

In Comoros, President Azali Assoumani secured a contentious fourth term amid accusations of voter suppression and irregularities. Violent protests followed, highlighting the ongoing governance struggles in the small island nation.

Tunisia’s President Kais Saied was reelected in an election marked by low voter turnout and the suppression of opposition parties. The lack of meaningful competition raised concerns about the country’s democratic trajectory.

In South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) retained power but lost its outright majority for the first time since the end of apartheid in 1994. This historic shift necessitated a coalition government, exposing cracks in public confidence and dissatisfaction with governance.

Chad’s Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, who came to power through a military coup in 2021, secured victory in elections criticized for voter suppression. The outcome underscores the fragile state of democracy in the Sahel region.

Opposition Gains Power

Botswana experienced a seismic shift as the opposition party, led by Duma Boko, ended nearly 60 years of rule by the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). The peaceful transfer of power reaffirmed Botswana’s commitment to democratic norms and marked a new era in its political history.

In Ghana, John Mahama’s National Democratic Congress ousted the New Patriotic Party, reflecting widespread frustration over economic hardships and governance failures. Mahama’s victory highlighted the electorate’s demand for accountability and a shift in leadership.

Senegal saw Bassirou Diomaye Faye of the opposition Pastef party rise to power, becoming Africa’s youngest president at 44. His election followed significant public unrest over attempts by outgoing President Macky Sall to extend his tenure, demonstrating the strength of civic engagement.

Mauritius experienced a landslide victory for the opposition Alliance for Change, led by Navin Ramgoolam. The electorate’s dissatisfaction with corruption and economic challenges fueled this dramatic political shift.

Somaliland, though unrecognized internationally, maintained its reputation for democratic stability with a peaceful transfer of power to the opposition, reinforcing its image as a model for governance in the Horn of Africa.

Key Challenges and Postponed Elections

In the Sahel region, elections in Burkina Faso, Mali, South Sudan, and Guinea-Bissau were postponed due to ongoing instability and the aftermath of coups.

These delays highlight the difficulty transitional governments face in restoring civilian rule and organizing credible elections.

Disputed elections in Tunisia and Mozambique brought the fragility of some democratic systems into sharp focus. Allegations of voter suppression, limited transparency, and diminished participation eroded trust in these processes and highlighted the importance of electoral integrity.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

The peaceful transfers of power in countries like Botswana, Ghana, Senegal, and Mauritius underscored the resilience of democratic institutions and the electorate’s ability to demand accountability. These outcomes demonstrate the growing appetite for change and reform across the continent.

However, the year also revealed the fragility of electoral systems. Disputed results and low voter turnout in countries like Mozambique, Tunisia, and Comoros underscored the importance of transparent election management and independent oversight to maintain public trust.

Civic movements played a pivotal role in shaping election outcomes. Protests in Senegal and Mozambique showed how active civil societies can safeguard democratic principles and hold leaders accountable.

Economic challenges were a decisive factor in several elections. In Ghana, Mauritius, and South Africa, voters expressed their dissatisfaction with governance and economic mismanagement, emphasizing the need for leaders to address bread-and-butter issues effectively.

The postponement of elections in countries like Burkina Faso and Mali highlighted the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian rule. Sustained international support and pressure will be crucial in ensuring these nations can rebuild democratic institutions.

The election of Namibia’s first female president marked a significant milestone for gender representation in African politics. However, broader efforts are needed to ensure greater inclusion of women in leadership across the continent.

Africa’s democratic dynamism

The 2024 elections reflected the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of democracy in Africa.

While some countries showed remarkable resilience and the power of peaceful transitions, others highlighted persistent governance challenges.

As Africa looks ahead, the lessons from this year will be critical in strengthening democratic institutions, addressing economic concerns, and fostering inclusive leadership for a more stable and prosperous future.