INTERNATIONAL LAW AND THE CONDUCT OF DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS IN AFRICAN COUNTRIES

Abstract

The advent of western styled democracy in Africa has been viewed as the epitome of political development. The general beliefs are that most democratic countries are developmental oriented and are less prone to internal conflicts as every individual is given an equal opportunity to participate in the governance of the country. Properly conducted elections gives legitimacy and international recognition to the elected government. At international level UN and various other international and regional organizations and agreements have given emphasis on democracy and properly conducted elections. Though international law has been heavily involved in internal elections, due to sovereignty, its full visibility is limited as individual countries still retain the power and the right to conduct elections in manners that satisfies their legislation and guidelines. In keeping with their international legal obligations on democracy and good governance, most African countries constitutionally recognize the right to vote. However, though many African countries recognize voting rights and purport to respect and follow them, implementation at the ground level paints a different picture. The majority of African elections are marred by vote rigging, violence, counter accusations, corruption and interference. Following constitutional amendments to swing support in favour of particular candidates, many challenges have compromised the flow of elections in most African countries, which in many facets violate international law and little has been done to minimise these challenges.