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Issues Foreign
Policy Africa Democratic Development
In the fall of
2006, more than 16 million citizens in the Democratic Republic
of Congo traveled many miles, waited in long lines, and braved
torrential rain to participate in that country’s first free
presidential elections. The relatively peaceful conduct and
high turnout for these elections – as well as national polls
in the Gambia, Zambia, Madagascar, Mauritania, and Gabon in
the last months of 2006 – have raised hopes that a new democratic
tide is sweeping the continent. Despite most African countries
having little or no experience of true democracy – in principle
or practice – people throughout the continent have shown the
unshakeable desire and determination to have a voice in their
government.
Major concerns remain, however, given the substantial
obstacles to free and fair elections scheduled for 2007 in
Nigeria, Kenya, Angola, Senegal, Lesotho, and elsewhere. I
have worked to encourage democratic institutions and to assist
the implementation of free and fair elections around the continent.
For six years I have been leading bipartisan efforts to support
the people of Zimbabwe in their struggles to effect peaceful,
democratic change, achieve broad-based and equitable economic
growth, and restore the rule of law. In the 109th Congress
I introduced legislation supporting democracy promotion initiatives
in Zimbabwe and urged Secretary Rice to devise a robust strategy
to facilitate a political transition in this troubled country.
Elections are only one element of democratic development,
however, and I am concerned by the serious corruption and
rule of law issues that persist in many African countries.
We must help these at-risk nations strengthen security structures,
enhance public service delivery, promote economic growth,
and improve their reputation at home and abroad.
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