Goodluck Jonathan on electoral manipulation warns democracy in Africa risks collapse unless leaders reform systems to stop power abuse

The former Nigerian president issued the warning at the 2025 edition of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) Democracy Dialogue held in Accra, Ghana.

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In a statement released on Saturday by the foundation’s Communications Officer, Wealth Dickson Ominabo, Jonathan cautioned that democracy on the continent could collapse unless stakeholders unite to rethink and reform it.

“Democracy in Africa is going through a period of strain and risks collapse unless stakeholders come together to rethink and reform it. Electoral manipulation remains one of the biggest threats in Africa,” he said.

Jonathan argued that when elections are credible, non-performing leaders can be peacefully voted out. But in Africa, he warned, manipulation often keeps leaders in power against the will of the people.

“Our people want their votes to count. They want equitable representation, good education, security, healthcare, jobs and dignity. When leaders fail to meet these basic needs, citizens become disillusioned,” he stressed.

He further urged African leaders to commit to building a democracy that secures a brighter future for the next generation, where citizens’ voices matter.

While commending youth eagerness to participate in governance, Jonathan said they need the wisdom of older leaders as guides to succeed.

The event also featured Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, who insisted that Africans must work actively to strengthen democracy.

“Democracy will not survive if we don’t work for it. We need a reset to ensure accountability. Citizens are tired of corruption, misgovernance, and lack of opportunities,” he said.

Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo, who chaired the dialogue, warned that Africa’s current democratic practice is unsustainable without urgent reforms.

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Other speakers included ECOWAS Commission President Dr Omar Touray and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah. They all agreed that democracy in Africa must go beyond elections to embrace accountability, service, and discipline.