Leaders Urge Urgent Reforms to Safeguard Democracy in Africa

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, alongside former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, has called for immediate reforms to protect democracy across Africa. Speaking at the 2025 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) Democracy Dialogue in Accra, Ghana, they warned that without such reforms, the continent’s democratic systems face potential collapse.

Jonathan emphasized the critical need for proper electoral processes, stating that leaders who fail to perform should not remain in power. He identified electoral manipulation as a primary threat to democratic integrity in Africa. “If we had proper elections, a leader who fails to perform would be voted out,” Jonathan asserted. He stressed that political systems are being abused by leaders who manipulate processes to cling to power, which leads to disillusionment among the populace seeking freedom, security, and basic needs such as education and healthcare.

The former president highlighted the responsibilities of stakeholders to reform democracy, indicating that failure to do so could open the door to authoritarianism. “Democracy in the African continent is going through a period of strain and risk of collapse unless stakeholders come together to rethink and reform it,” he said.

Urgent Call for Institutional Reforms

President Mahama echoed these sentiments, arguing that democracy will not endure unless there is a collective effort to strengthen and protect it. He pointed out that issues like weak institutions and elite capture damage public trust in democratic processes. “Democracy will not survive if we don’t work for it,” he warned, emphasizing the need for accountability from those in power.

Mahama outlined the necessity of renewing democracy through development and education, stating, “A free press is democracy’s immune system.” He cautioned that democracy risks degradation when citizens lose faith in their leaders and institutions.

Former President Obasanjo, who chaired the dialogue, warned that current democratic practices in Africa are unsustainable. He called for a reevaluation of democratic principles, arguing that they have drifted away from the original vision of governance “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” He stated, “Democracy dies because democracy has refused to be reformed.”

Obasanjo likened the internal failures of democracy to “the insect in the vegetable” that destroys it from within. He criticized leaders who overstay their welcome, labeling such behavior a “sin against God.”

Path Forward for Africa’s Democratic Future

The discussions also highlighted the importance of youth involvement in governance. Jonathan noted that while youth participation is promising, the experience and wisdom of older generations are vital for successful governance.

Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized that democracy must encompass more than just elections. He stated, “Democracy is about accountability, discipline, and results.” He insisted that without these elements, any system will inevitably falter.

Keynote speaker Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah urged politicians to act with patriotism and integrity. He emphasized the need for public officials to reflect service and inspire confidence in the institutions that underpin democracy.

The dialogue concluded with a strong consensus on the urgent need for collaborative action to reform and revitalize democratic practices across Africa. Leaders across the continent must ensure that democracy delivers tangible benefits to the people, fostering trust and engagement within their societies.