The dictatorial nature of the postcolonial African State, and its failures, have informed the debate on the democratization process in Africa and set the context for the recent spate of elections that have become the litmus test of a sincere commitment to democratic governance. Against this background, African elections and electoral systems have more missions and functions than their counterparts in Western countries. In Africa the type of electoral system and election is at the heart of the struggle between the defenders of the status quo and the champions of change. Amongst others, elections must ensure the smooth transition to democratic governance. The most common issues in this respect relate to the authorship of the electoral law, the protection of constitutional rights and guarantees, notably the right to form political parties, the existence of an impartial electoral authority, the freeness and fairness of elections, voter eligibility, and the choice of electoral system. African elections and electoral systems also serve as a vehicle for conflict resolution. While African elections have brought regime changes they have not always ushered in a radical transformation of the State and democratic governance. Democracy needs to be consolidated and it may be incumbent on the international community to be interested in long-term results rather than short-term procedures.
