Somalia is at a turning point in its political history, while it undertakes a national voter recording campaign in Mogadishu, planned in perspective of local elections at the end of June 2024. This process, which marks a first in almost fifty years for citizens of the capital, raises fundamental questions on the evolution of an electoral system long dominated by inequitable clan structures. While President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud envisages reforms towards a direct voting model “a citizen, a vote” by 2026, the reluctance of certain political leaders show the complexity of the dynamics at stake. In a context where distrust and security concerns persist, this initiative will have to navigate between the aspirations of a true democratic representation and the logistical and socio-political challenges which accompany him. The path to a politically inclusive Somalia seems sown with pitfalls, but remains carrying hope and opportunities for dialogue.
Category: Politics
The debate on the form of the State in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is of crucial importance in the current political context, where questions of governance and national cohesion are particularly sensitive. In this context, the positions of political figures such as Marie-Ange Mushobekwa, former deputy and ex-minister of human rights, feed collective reflection. By expressing her opposition to federalism, she raises essential issues on decentralization, management of institutions and fears of Balkanization. While proposals in favor of a federal model continue to circulate, the urgency of an in -depth analysis of institutional dysfunctions and the effective implementation of the current constitution is essential. This complex context calls for an open and constructive dialogue between political actors and civil society, in order to find solutions adapted to the aspirations of the entire Congolese population.
In a context where governance and management of public institutions are often sources of tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the recent decision of President Félix Tshisekedi aimed at regulating the suspensions of public agents raises significant questions. By seeking to establish a clear and transparent framework for these suspensions, the president intends to end practices perceived as arbitrary, while promoting essential social tranquility for the country. However, this initiative is accompanied by challenges linked to the balance of powers within the State and to administrative efficiency. Thus, could this measure really promote a climate of confidence and harmony within institutions, or is it simply symbolic? This text explores the multiple dimensions of this decision and the challenges it poses for the future of Congolese governance.
The recent elections in Gabon, marked by a coup d’etat having dismissed the Bongo dynasty after more than five decades of power, pose many challenges for the future of this small country in Central Africa. The election of Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, a general who became president, is surrounded by controversies, in particular with regard to allegations of fraud and irregularities observed by experts. In a context of growing social dissatisfaction, his accession to the presidency is both perceived as an opportunity for change and a challenge in terms of restoring confidence in institutions. Questions on the management of popular expectations, promises of economic development, as well as the urgent need for national reconciliation are now central concerns that will determine the next stages of governance in Gabon. The capacity of the new president to navigate these challenges while promoting an inclusive and human rights environment will be crucial for the future stability of the country.
The political situation in Mali, marked by persistent instability and significant social tensions, invites us to question the challenges linked to human rights and justice in the country. Recently, the decision to maintain three activists from the Peace Movement in Mali and the Opposition Party Sadi in detention raises questions about the legitimacy of the accusations of them and respect for judicial standards. While allegations of torture and inhuman treatments emerge, the current climate of repression of freedom of expression sheds light on a context where dissident voices seem increasingly threatened. This case, which is part of a broader framework of dialogue on security and justice, challenges the capacity of the Malian state to protect the fundamental rights of its citizens while managing complex political issues. Through this reflection, essential questions are emerged on the balance to be established between security, justice and respect for human dignity in an environment in constant evolution.
The recent passage of Ousmane Sonko to the National Assembly of Senegal raises crucial issues in an already tense political climate. Marked by the boycott of the majority of the opposition and questions relating to freedom of expression and layoffs in the public sector, this exchange testifies to the fractures that cross the Senegalese society. While the Prime Minister affirms his commitment to restoring public finances and establishing citizen listening, questions persist in the effectiveness of the measures announced and their impact on democratic dialogue. This situation highlights the need for a balance between firmness and openness, raising reflections on collective responsibility and the commitment of political actors in favor of a serene future for Senegal.
The recent presidential elections in Ecuador, marked by the victory of Daniel Noboa, raise important questions about the democratic stability of the country. While Noboa claimed a “historic victory” against Luisa Gonzalez, the context in which this ballot takes place is also essential to consider. The equator faces social and economic challenges, exacerbated by violence linked to drug trafficking, which underline a growing political fracture. The accusations of fraud and distrust of electoral institutions highlight underlying tensions within Ecuadorian society. This complex table invites us to reflect on the implications of these results for the future of the country, as well as on the need for a constructive dialogue between the different factions.
The recent declaration by Luisa Gonzalez, a candidate on the left to the presidency of the equator, highlights the crucial issues linked to confidence in the electoral processes and the health of democracy in the country. By not recognizing the partial results of the election, it calls for a recount of voices, thus raising questions about the transparency and integrity of Ecuadorian democratic institutions. In a historical context imbued with political tensions and popular disputes, this decision illustrates not only the aspirations of part of the population, but also the challenges linked to the acceptance of electoral results. This development opens up a space conducive to a broader reflection on political dialogue, the need to strengthen confidence in the institutions and the potential consequences of a prolonged challenge on social coheution.
In a political landscape marked by multiple tensions and challenges in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the call of the national deputy Gratien de Saint Nicolas Iracan for constructive opposition is of particular importance. His plea, expressed at a press conference in April 2025, raises the question of collaboration between power and opposition in a configuration where distrust of institutions and political repression are palpable realities. While the country’s socio-economic situation remains worrying, this discourse raises questions about the means of establishing a positive and inclusive dialogue, while preserving essential political rights. Through this invitation to rethink the role of the opposition, Iracan strives to trace a path to a more participatory democracy, while recognizing the obstacles that remain on this path.
On April 12, 2025, the elite movement for democracy and real change (MDVC) called on the Minister of State for Justice to investigate the accommodation of members of the M23 armed group in Kinshasa, raising questions about national security and political responsibilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This context highlights the difficulties surrounding the management of a group with the history marked by violence and human rights violations, and questions the bond of confidence between the State and its citizens. While transparency in government decisions is essential to restore this confidence, the debate focuses on the implications of such a situation on the credibility of the authorities, while inviting to reflect on sustainable solutions to ensure stability and a peaceful future in the region. This request for survey of the MDVC may well be a catalyst for a broader dialogue, integrating all the stakeholders, in order to better understand the underlying issues.