Desires for Accountability and Obstacles to Democracy in Mali

• In Event: Learning from Global Democratic Challenges and Innovations Mini-Conference III: Democracy in Francophone Africa: Enduring Challenges and Paths Forward

Abstract

This chapter draws explores the contradictions within Mali’s multi-party era by drawing on focus group data with more than 300 members of 66 tea-drinking social clubs in Bamako and Mopti/Sevare – mostly young, urban men. The data, collected in 2015, highlight a perceived distance between citizens and elected officials, but also robust deliberative culture within Mali society as well as strong connections between citizens and non-elected forms of authority – such as religious leaders and traditional elites. It explores the ways that popular this disjuncture fuels popular frustration with multi-party elections and desire for deep-seated reforms – foreshadowing popular support for Mali’s ruling junta. It concludes by highlighting young people’s ideas about an ideal political leader – stressing the importance of someone who is accountable and responsible to the populations concerns.

Author

• Jaimie Bleck, University of Notre Dame