The former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has stated that a notable threat to democracy in Africa currently, is leaders' failure to provide the "Next Meal" to the ordinary citizen.
Speaking on the topic "Strengthening Nigeria's Democracy: Pathway To Good Governance And Political Integrity" in Nigeria on Monday, January 27, 2025, Dr Bawumia emphasised that the fundamental value of democracy is not in the process of electing leaders but in ensuring that citizens' needs, especially their basic survival, are met.
Citing the late Nelson Mandela, one of Africa's greatest leaders, Dr Bawumia stated, "As long as poverty, injustice, and gross inequality exist in our world, none of us can truly rest." The former Vice President highlighted the continuing relevance of Mandela's words, stressing that true democracy must work towards ending these persistent societal ills.
His speech underscored the fact that, for democracy to be meaningful, it must deliver tangible benefits such as access to essential public goods and services, opportunities for economic advancement, and a fair society for all citizens. "For Nigeria, and indeed much of Sub-Saharan Africa, our work is cut out for us.
