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Succession in traditional African Community was designed in such a way that the first son succeeds his father after his demise.
Maxilensnews gathered that, this idea despite the bettering in globalization and civilization still exist in some African countries even at the central/presidential level.
Here is a list of some African Presidents that still hold on to their father’s dynasty:
Ali Bongo of Gabon
Ali Bongo became president of Gabon in 2009 following the death of his father Omar Bongo who held to power for over four decades starting from 1967.
Before his ascension to the presidency, the 62 year old Ali Bongo held many key political positions during his father’s regime, including the Gabonese Minister for Defence.
Faure Gnassingbé of Togo
In 2005, Faure Gnassingbé, who was then a 38 year old novice was thrusted into the political limelight and ultimately the presidency following the death of his father, Gnassingbé Eyadéma.
Though international and local organisations questioned his legitimacy, he was able to cement his grip to power with the heavy machination of the country’s army.
Upon severe pressure and threats of sanctions, he resigned his post and contested the next elections which he won controversially.
D.R. Congo’s Joseph Kabila Kabange
Within few days after the assassination of Laurent-Désiré Kabila, his 29 year old son, Joseph Kabila was handed the presidency in tandem with his father’s dying wish.
Though many of his citizens were pessimistic looking at his inexperience in the political realm, Joseph Kabila went on to prove his capabilities, negotiating many deals with rebels and leading a massive infrastructure development.
He handed over power to the current president, Félix Tshisekedi after 18 years in charge of the Central African country.
Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue of Equatorial Guinea
Although in Equatorial Guinea, the long time president, Teodorin Obiang is still alive, he has however nominated his son to be his successor after his death.
To show how serious his decision is, the president who has been in power for 42 years elevated his son to the position of Vice President in 2012.
Many citizens of the Central African country have condemned the dynasty-styled obsession of the ruling family.
The international shame emanating from the younger Obiang’s extravagant lifestyle and massive engagement in corruption might impede his transition to the presidency.
Nevertheless, this is Africa and everything is possible. All he has to do is to chill in expensive exotic vacations as he awaits his 79 year-old father to die so as to start his term.
Mahamat Deby Into of Chad
37 year old Mahamat Deby Itno is set to resume control of Chad following the assassination of his father, Idris Deby by rebels his government was fighting in the northern part of the country.
A general in the Chadian army who also deputises the commander of the northern campaign, Mahatma Deby will be leading a military council which will be in power for the next one and a half years.
