By Nasir Shuaibu
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has warned that elections alone cannot sustain democracy in Africa, stressing the need to strengthen democratic institutions and uphold constitutional principles.
Jonathan made the declaration at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue held in Bauchi, with the theme, “Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Save African Democracy?”
The former president, who founded the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, said democratic decline was often preceded by the gradual weakening of institutions, abuse of power, disregard for constitutional norms and declining public confidence in democratic processes.
He said the continent needed stronger institutions and political structures capable of sustaining democracy beyond periodic elections.
Chairman of the dialogue, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, called for stronger democratic institutions, accountable political parties and an independent judiciary as safeguards against democratic setbacks and poor governance.
Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, in his remarks, said democracy should not be reduced to election-day rituals, arguing that political parties must be accountable while the judiciary must remain strong, independent and fearless in upholding the rule of law.
Bala also praised the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation for sustaining the annual dialogue, describing it as an important platform for promoting discussions on democratic governance, peaceful transitions and institutional strengthening.
The high-level gathering attracted former Vice President Namadi Sambo, Peter Obi, former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri, political leaders, diplomats, academics and representatives from across Africa.
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