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In a few months Kenyan voters will have the chance to make choices that could change the political landscape. Historically voters have tended to sacrifice this right at the altar of tribe, money or personality. But, writes Yvonne Rowa Woods, Kenyans can turn their backs on the usual suspects and launch a democratic revival.
Today is Freedom Day in South Africa. As the country marks 23 years of democracy Chris Jones cautions that it’s paying a very high price for the lack of moral leadership while Edward Webster unpacks the significance of the launch of a new trade union federation. From our archives we have Henning Melber’s explanation
about why liberators can easily turn into oppressors.
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Kenyan voters queue to cast their ballots during the 2013 general election.
Thomas Mukoya/Reuters
Yvonne Rowa Woods, University of Adelaide
Kenyan voters are aware of their central role in the electoral process, yet they tend to limit their leadership choices. Are they ready to break away from tradition in the 2017 elections?
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Kenyan Election
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Keith Somerville, University of Kent
The violence that often accompanies political disputes or elections is testimony to the efficacy of hate propaganda as a tool in the political arsenal of Kenyan politicians.
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John Walubengo, Multimedia University of Kenya
In a political environment where voters are increasingly attuned to instances of polling malpractice, African states are grudgingly adopting technology as a barrier to election fraud.
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Mercy Muendo, Mount Kenya University
Inflammatory speech has often found fertile ground in Kenya's election campaign period. As the country approaches another political cliff-hanger, law enforcement agencies have their work cut out.
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South African Freedom Day
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Edward Webster, University of the Witwatersrand
South Africa's newest trade union federation, Saftu, comes at a time of declining political influence by unions, compared to during the struggle against apartheid. They are also seen as elitist.
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Chris Jones, Stellenbosch University
South Africa celebrates Freedom Day this week amid growing discontent over misrule by President Zuma and the ANC. This has led to increased calls for ethical and caring leaders.
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From our archives
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Henning Melber, University of Pretoria
It is normal for resistance movements to adopt rough survival strategies and techniques while fighting an oppressive regime. Unfortunately that culture takes root and is permanently nurtured.
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From our international editions
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Andrew Coates, UCL
One of the most successful space exploration missions of all time still has a lot left to uncover.
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Francis Vergunst, Université de Montréal; Julian Savulescu, University of Oxford
Eat less meat, save the world
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Frank J. Cilluffo, George Washington University; Alec Nadeau, George Washington University; Rob Wainwright, University of Exeter
Cybercriminals are using cloud-based services, much like regular businesses. A new study reveals important lessons for the future of fighting cybercrime.
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