The recent elections in Uganda have highlighted the risk that Africa is facing a democratic pushback after two decades of progress in moving away from authoritarian orders. With the continent facing a series of key elections in 2021 and 2022, there are concerns that some parts of Africa may be experiencing a return to the strongman politics and political instability of the past. Africa's success in promoting democratic transitions has depended upon the moral authority as well as the political and military leverage of the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities, but also relied on the engagement of key countries, notably South Africa. With Africa's democratic future under pressure, there are =concerns that South Africa is toning down its previous support for democratisation.
In this webinar, John Steenhuisen, leader of the Democratic Alliance, South Africa's official opposition, will reflect on the political challenges facing the continent and will seek to highlight the need for South Africa to resume its leading role in advancing democracy and freedom across the continent.
John Steenhuisen MP was elected Leader of the Democratic Alliance last November, having previously served as the Chief Whip of the Official Opposition.
The discussion will be chaired by Ray Hartley, Research Director, The Brenthurst Foundation.
This event is organised in partnership with the Brenthurst Foundation as part of the International Security Studies' Africa in Perspective programme.
