Opposition Politics in Africa

There is rise of what is dubbed “the people’s president” which is usually held by the main opposition leader in some countries, mainly after a lost election. After losing an election Raila Odinga of the republic of Kenya, declared himself the people’s president, thus making the term or deed popular. Meanwhile Kizza Besigye of Uganda did the same and declared himself the peoples president. On the other hand speculation has it; Nelson Chamisa of Zimababwe is considering embarking on the same route after he lost elections against Emmerson Mnagagwa. So today we look at the rise of this practice and what it means for opposition politics in the continent? To help us unpack the discussion for the day, we are joined by: • Prof David Moore Department of Development Studies University of Johannesburg (UJ)• Dr Jessie Kabwila Member of Parliament (Opposition) & Chair: Women Caucus Malawi Parliament • Jesse Majome Constitutional Lawyer Former Member of the Zimbabwe Parliament and Member of the Opposition MDC party