Liberation movements often find themselves at the intersection of three challenges: maintaining ideological legitimacy, managing governance effectively, and addressing citizens’ evolving demands. This precarious “triangle” influences their survival.
South Africa, Botswana and Zambia as an Exception:
The 2016 local government elections in South Africa provides a unique case. The ANC (African National Congress) lost control of key metropolitan municipalities, such as Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Nelson Mandela Bay. Despite this, the political transition was peaceful, with no notable civil unrest. This demonstrates a matured democratic culture and strong institutional frameworks.
The political transitions in Botswana and Zambia indeed serve as important examples of democratic maturity in Southern Africa. These instances contrast sharply with the violent reactions of other liberation movements in the region.
Botswana’s Democratic Maturity:
Botswana’s peaceful transition of power following the defeat of its liberation movement stands as a beacon of democratic strength. The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), which had dominated since independence, accepted electoral defeat gracefully. The leadership, including the President, upheld the principles of democracy, respecting the will of the people.
Zambia’s Resilient Democracy:
Zambia has consistently demonstrated its capacity for peaceful political transitions. A notable example is the 2021 elections, where opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development (UPND) defeated the incumbent Edgar Lungu. The transition of power was marked by respect for the electoral process and an absence of violence, reinforcing Zambia’s democratic credentials.
Contrasts with Zimbabwe and Mozambique:
These peaceful transitions in Botswana and Zambia sharply contrast with the violent responses observed in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The resistance of ruling liberation movements to relinquish power in these countries highlights the broader struggle between entrenched political elites and emerging democratic norms.
Violence Following Electoral Losses in Zimbabwe:
In Zimbabwe, the ruling ZANU-PF faced electoral defeat in 2008 but responded with violence, targeting opposition figures from the MDC (Movement for Democratic Change). This reflects the fragility of democratic practices and a prioritization of retaining power over honouring electoral outcomes.
Mozambique and FRELIMO’s Struggles:
Similarly, Mozambique’s FRELIMO party faced a crisis following electoral losses. The reported prison break involving over 1,000 inmates signifies broader governance and security issues. This situation underscores the challenges of maintaining state stability when liberation movements lose their grip on power.
The killing of a lawyer representing the PEDOM leader in Mozambique, coupled with escalating violence in the southern regions, underscores the fragility of democratic institutions and their inability to safeguard against authoritarian practices. Such developments would likely dishearten Samora Machel, whose vision for Mozambique diverges starkly from the current state of affairs. Today, many Mozambicans live in dire poverty, disillusioned by the broken promises of FRELIMO, rampant corruption, cronyism, and weak leadership.
Approximately 46.1% of Mozambique’s population lives below the poverty line, with many struggling to access basic necessities. This economic despair forces a significant number of Mozambicans to risk their lives crossing into South Africa illegally, often without proper identification. The recent discovery of minors from Mozambique working in illegal mining operations in South Africa illustrates the extreme survival strategies adopted by desperate individuals.
The Mozambican government has had difficulty giving its people hope or significant advancement. In light of this, opposition leader Valencio Mondlane has become a ray of hope for many, representing the idea of a more prosperous and egalitarian Mozambique, which contrasts sharply with the present difficulties facing the nation.
Broader Implications:
These instances show a trend in which liberation movements, which were formerly emblems of resistance and hope, find it difficult to adjust to the requirements of contemporary government and democratic transitions. Political violence and instability are more likely to occur in areas with weak democratic norms and institutional strength.
Lessons for the Region:
Botswana and Zambia offer valuable lessons for Southern Africa:
Respect for democratic institutions and processes is vital for political stability.
Leaders’ willingness to accept defeat ensures that power transitions remain peaceful.
Strong and independent electoral bodies play a critical role in fostering trust in the electoral process.
These instances show that when institutions are strong, leadership is responsible, and the rule of law is respected, democracy can flourish in Africa.
By Ntsako Shivambu
A Historian, Political commentator and a law student with University of South Africa.
