CURRENT REPORT BLOG Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized Western Liberal Democracy, arguing that it was imposed on Africa by colonialists and has proven unsuitable for the continent. Speaking at a high-level consultation in Abeokuta, he emphasized that the Western style of democracy neglects the majority’s views and proposed adopting an “Afro-centred democracy.” Obasanjo urged African countries to define and design their governance systems, asserting that continuing with imported models that do not work for the people is counterproductive.
Obasanjo called for a reevaluation of liberal democracy’s shortcomings in Africa and invited leaders to think innovatively about creating a system that aligns with the continent’s values and needs. He stressed the importance of examining the performance of democracy in both Western countries and Africa, encouraging a shift in mindset among leaders to bring about meaningful change.