This book takes stock of the debate surrounding the institution of presidential term limits in Africa, against the backdrop of global trends toward authoritarianism and the rise of strong men. Widely adopted three decades ago, term limits for the office of the president are now being challenged by many African leaders. The power alternation debate in Africa raises important questions concerning the future of democracy and development on the continent. Using a case study approach, this book explores in detail six situations in which leaders have either succeeded or failed in altering term limits. It thoroughly dissects the arguments, tactics and strategies on both sides of the issue, and draws key lessons for strengthening constitutionalism in Africa.

Jack R. Mangala is Professor of Global Studies and Political Science at Grand Valley State University, Michigan, USA, where he also serves as Chair of the Area and Global Studies Department.

Chapter 1. Presidential Term Limits-The Never-Ending Debate.- Part I. J'y suis, J'y reste.- Chapter 2. The Battle for Term Limits in Rwanda.- Chapter 3. The Making of a Monarchical Republic: The Undoing of Presidential Term Limits in Gabon under Omar Bongo.- Chapter 4. Presidential Term Limits in Uganda: Do Elections Provide an Avenue for Alternate Power Succession?.- Part. II. Touche pas à ma constitution.- Chapter 5. The Undoing of a Semi-Authoritarian Regime: The Term Limit Debate and the Fall of Blaise Compaoré in Burkina Faso.- Chapter 6. Failed Elongation of Presidential Term Limits in Nigeria under Olusegun Obasanjo.- Chapter 7.- Frederick Chilula's Third Presidential Term Bid in Zambia.- Chapter 8. Conclusion: Constitutionalism and the future of Presidential Term Limits in Africa.