Here is a host of stories tied to African politics:
Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf plans to run for a second term in 2011. Despite her country’s Truth and Reconciliation advising against such a decision based on her early (and apparently scant) support for Charles Taylor, Johnson Sirleaf will almost certainly win re-election and deservedly so. However, she had initially promised to serve only one term, and while Liberia’s constitution fully grants the option of two terms, there is always something a bit disquieting about an African leader breaking such a vow.
A Washington Post travel story finds that Burundi’s capital, Bujumbura, is thriving.
The African Union has declared that Guinea’s military junta needs to hold elections within six months. The country’s new interim Prime Minister, Jean-Marie Dore, concurs, telling reporters that he wants the transition government to “lead the country to ‘transparent and credible elections’ and to overhaul the military.”
Zambia’s former leader Frederick Chiluba has endorsed President Rupiah Banda for re-election next year, but some are questioning his motives.
In news that should shock no one: Robert Mugabe refuses to make any concessions in his negotiations with the Movement for Democratic Change and its leader Morgan Tsvangirai until the west ends sanctions. This might seem like a perfectly fair stance, except that since Tsvangirai also wants the sanctions lifted, what on earth is the purpose of Mugabe’s stance? Oh yeah. He just does not want to share power.
The stalemate over Nigeria’s leadership continues to keep its grip on the country. The government is split, having been virtually leaderless for more than two months. The cabinet, which is naturally loyal to President Omar Yar’Adua, who has been out of the country and who has been incapacitated by mysterious ailments, believes that he will be capable of governing the country upon his return from Saudi Arabia, where he has been convalescing. The Senate is skeptical and wants to see some proof.
Finally: Don’t drink and drive in Cape Town.
