Leadership for power, not transformation

Salomon Beas, a former MRC militant, argues that African political parties are often led by individuals whose sole ambition is to become president, stifling democratic development. In a recent Facebook post, he criticizes this trend, stating that these leaders lack genuine commitment to societal change.

«When civil servants and administrators abruptly transition into political leaders without proper preparation, democracy struggles to take root. Their only goal is to quickly ascend to the presidency without fostering real transformation in the minds of the people they seek to govern. They demand unwavering support for their ambitions while ignoring the aspirations of others. In this race against time, they surround themselves with followers rather than independent thinkers, sidelining those who might challenge their views.

Over time, this approach erodes the values needed to reshape the political landscape, leaving behind mere opportunists incapable of meaningful action. Ultimately, their projects become obsolete by the time they retire,» Beas argues.

Democracy requires vision, not personal agendas

Beas emphasizes that true democratic leadership demands conviction, vision, and acceptance of constructive dissent. «Dictatorships thrive in such systems, and political reproduction becomes a lasting model that hinders governance for years. A leader who fails to grasp that democracy means shared vision and projects—and even welcomes rivals who may surpass them—will inevitably see their ambitions crumble.

Political success isn’t about personal achievement but about inspiring others to rise above their limitations. Beas warns that Central Africa’s political culture suffers from a dangerous affliction: party leaders behave like spiritual revival pastors, seeking blind followers rather than committed activists who can challenge and strengthen democracy.