Democracy, Technology, and Electoral Violence in Africa: Lessons from Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya

Abstract

Election-related violence has become a persistent challenge across the African continent, frequently occurring in the aftermath of elections when dissatisfied citizens protest against perceived electoral fraud. Often, these protests escalate into violent conflicts. In response to demands for more credible and transparent elections, many African governments have integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into their electoral processes to reduce irregularities and enhance election integrity. This study investigates the impact of ICT adoption on the stability of African states, with a particular focus on Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. The findings indicate that, despite ICT integration, electoral irregularities and subsequent violent protests persist. The findings suggest that while ICT has contributed to the electoral process, it alone is insufficient to efficiently address the underlying issues of electoral fraud. The study advocates for a comprehensive approach to electoral reform, emphasizing the need for improvements across various facets of the electoral system, including managerial, monitoring, and oversight mechanisms.