Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia
Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has advised African leaders to focus on addressing the economic needs of their citizens as the lack of same poses a huge threat to the sustainability of democracy on the continent.
Speaking at Nigeria’s National Conference on Strengthening Democracy, on Monday, January 27, 2025, Dr Bawumia underscored the crucial relationship that exists between the economic empowerment of citizens and the entrenchment of democracy as a system of governance.
He pointed out that meeting the basic needs of citizens is a fundamental value of democracy, which extends beyond the process of choosing leaders.
“We cannot talk about democracy in the abstract. It must be about outcomes that improve people’s lives,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
“The priority for many Africans is survival. When people are struggling to secure their next meal, democracy becomes a secondary concern. The best democracy delivers on its promises. When citizens do not have to worry about their survival, they can more fully embrace democratic values and engage meaningfully in the political process” he added
Dr Bawumia stressed that the future of democracy in Africa depends on effective governance that prioritises the welfare of its people.
“It is only when people are assured of their basic needs that they can fully embrace the values of democracy,” he concluded.