Parliament in space and time... the tyranny of description over explanation
This opinion piece argues that political discourse in Africa is often hindered by a reliance on superficial description rather than deep explanation. It critiques how colonial-era stereotypes and post-colonial political behaviors continue to shape the perception and governance of African nations.
Why it matters
It provides a critical perspective on post-colonial political theory and the importance of intellectual depth in analyzing national politics.
The lack of sophistication in our politics has led to judgment based on what one sees. Eyes alone are not enough. In politics, eyes may only see what has been decided. Stories on the eight o’clock news are a selection from the many collected. Someone decided which story is covered and which is ignored; what appears on the front page, and which picture accompanies it. Sophistication is needed, beyond descriptions of what is shown, especially when dealing with a nation’s politics.
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