Elections

Elections LONGREADS

High Cost of Elections is a Threat to Democracy in Africa

African countries cannot sustain the high cost of elections in the face of competing public spending priorities. The dependence on donor support to bridge election budget deficits erode national sovereignties and expose countries to foreign manipulation. With Sub-Saharan African countries holding the most expensive elections in the world, there is an urgent need to rethink the entire democratic process.

by Richard Oduor Oduku
Elections Politics & Economy

The Question of Ethics and Integrity of Candidates in Kenyan Elections

In the next three months, Kenyans will be voting in new leadership as their constitution requires. Politicians and individuals facing corruption, murder and other criminal charges have been cleared to run for various elective positions. State institutions and agencies tasked with gate-keeping credibility checks for running candidates have excused themselves thanks to a watered down integrity law that initially stopped such characters from vying. Will Kenyans entrust these people with leadership positions? And what does it mean should this happen?

by Barack Oduor