Support for Military Government Grows Amid Governance Failures:
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A recent report by Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network, sheds light on shifting attitudes towards governance in Africa. Despite a prevailing preference for democracy, significant support for military rule is emerging due to widespread dissatisfaction with civilian leadership.
The latest Afrobarometer report, “African Insights 2024: Democracy at Risk – The People’s Perspective,” reveals that 66% of Africans across 39 countries still prefer democracy. However, the same report highlights a rising acceptance of military takeovers as a response to corruption and governance failures. Notably, 53% of Africans are now open to accepting military rule if elected officials misuse their power.
In Nigeria, 41% of the population expresses support for military rule if civilian leaders continue to abuse their authority, reflecting a growing disillusionment with democratic governance. This sentiment comes amid a dramatic 74% increase in perceived corruption across all levels of government, including the presidency, parliament, civil servants, judiciary, and local officials.
Support for democracy has declined by 7 percentage points across Africa, with notable drops in countries like South Africa and Mali. In Nigeria, 56% still reject military rule, but the rising number of those dissatisfied with democratic governance underscores a shift in attitudes. The situation mirrors recent events in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic, where military takeovers have been supported by citizens disillusioned with their governments’ corruption and inefficiency.
The data suggest that, while democracy remains the preferred system for many, a significant portion of the population is increasingly viewing military intervention as a viable alternative in the face of rampant corruption and governance failures.
