should be reasonable and proportionate to the health risk. The virus is no excuse to
ignore sound electoral practice.
Even with free and fair elections, Africa’s democracy is threatened by weakened
economies. Countries will need substantial assistance to get through the crisis.
Governments and their international partners must avoid the failed policies of the past
when, even though debt was forgiven or rescheduled, budgets for education and health
care were slashed. Imposing strict austerity amid mass unemployment would threaten
stability and democratic progress.
Hard times can make people vulnerable to the siren song of populists and extremists
trading on communal enmities. By taking these steps Africa can prevent a health crisis
from killing its young democracies.
| Section menu | Main menu |