Development and Leadership: A Case Study of Mobutu’s Leadership
Location
CSU 253
Start Date
18-4-2016 2:10 PM
End Date
18-4-2016 3:10 PM
Student's Major
History
Student's College
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Mentor's Name
Agnes Odinga-Oluoch
Mentor's Department
History
Mentor's College
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Description
In the wake of independence, Africans sought to establish democratic ideals mirroring the west. With independence, many believed in an African leadership that would restore African values and reconcile people. The unfolding reality since the 1960s when ¾ of African countries gained independence tells a different story. Although different regimes were parading symbols of democracy such as multi-parties and elections most of them remained dictatorial. The former Belgium Congo and its dictator Mobutu is an example of leadership failure. This paper analyses leadership failures in post –colonial Africa. Through a closes analysis and evaluation of Mobutu’s leadership and reign, this research will illustrate the correlation between leadership failure and development in post-colonial Africa. I will argue that imported western systems were not suitable within the African context, and that the transplantation of western style democracy was incongruent with traditional and prevailing governance realities in Africa. The study begins with historical examination of Mobutu’s ascendancy to power and then explores the reasons for and why his leadership failed. The study makes a contribution to governance, leadership and economic development in post –colonial Africa.
Development and Leadership: A Case Study of Mobutu’s Leadership
CSU 253
In the wake of independence, Africans sought to establish democratic ideals mirroring the west. With independence, many believed in an African leadership that would restore African values and reconcile people. The unfolding reality since the 1960s when ¾ of African countries gained independence tells a different story. Although different regimes were parading symbols of democracy such as multi-parties and elections most of them remained dictatorial. The former Belgium Congo and its dictator Mobutu is an example of leadership failure. This paper analyses leadership failures in post –colonial Africa. Through a closes analysis and evaluation of Mobutu’s leadership and reign, this research will illustrate the correlation between leadership failure and development in post-colonial Africa. I will argue that imported western systems were not suitable within the African context, and that the transplantation of western style democracy was incongruent with traditional and prevailing governance realities in Africa. The study begins with historical examination of Mobutu’s ascendancy to power and then explores the reasons for and why his leadership failed. The study makes a contribution to governance, leadership and economic development in post –colonial Africa.
Recommended Citation
Kyelem, Celine. "Development and Leadership: A Case Study of Mobutu’s Leadership." Undergraduate Research Symposium, Mankato, MN, April 18, 2016.
https://cornerstone.lib.mnsu.edu/urs/2016/oral-session-12/1
