AU Commitments to Democracy in Theory and Practice: An African Human Security Review

The lack of peaceful mechanisms for the transfer of power has been one of the most common triggers for political repression, violence and even civil war on the African continent. This 'shadow review' of democratisation in a selection of eight African countries is inspired by the aims and ambitions of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). Africa's heavyweights, South Africa, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, Ethiopia, Ghana, Algeria and Uganda, are considered in terms of their commitments - on paper and in practice - to fair and inclusive electoral systems, multi-partyism, independence of the judicialry and term limitations of political office.