Will Senegal Have Two Presidents

The extraordinary political developments in Senegal provide a unique opportunity to rethink governance models for Africa. The inadvertent emergence of two powerful leaders - President-elect Diomaye Faye and 'President-at-large' Ousmane Sonko - challenges the traditional western notion of a singular holder of executive power.

This situation could pave the way for a more consultative and collective leadership approach, drawing from Africa's rich heritage of community decision-making. Instead of concentrating power in one individual, we could explore governance structures that involve multiple stakeholders and diverse perspectives.

The dangers of authoritarian rule and power-drunk leaders have been all too evident across the continent. By distributing authority and fostering collaborative problem-solving, we can mitigate the risks of unchecked power and promote more accountable, people-centered governance.

An afro-centric process of selecting and electing leaders could involve a combination of democratic elections and traditional consensus-building mechanisms. Communities could nominate respected elders, experts, and representatives to serve on councils or advisory bodies, working alongside elected officials to shape policies and address societal challenges. Consensus, not competition. This could ensure that political leadership isn’t reduced to a zero-sum game. This will engender an authentic competition of ideas, not a constant clash of egos.

This model recognizes the complexities of modern African societies and the importance of harnessing collective wisdom. It aligns with the spirit of Ubuntu, emphasizing interconnectedness, shared responsibility, and the belief that "I am because we are."

As Africans, we have an opportunity to forge our own path, drawing inspiration from our rich cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary realities. The Senegalese scenario offers a glimpse into an alternative future, where transformative leadership is not the domain of a single individual but a collaborative endeavor rooted in our values and aspirations.

Let us embrace this moment and explore innovative approaches to governance that truly empower our people and unleash the continent's vast potential.