Former Botswana President Festus Mogae Dies

The death of former Botswana president Festus Mogae has prompted discussion about presidential term limits and succession practices across Africa. AllAfrica reported that the death should lead to a conversation about why staying too long in power often ends badly on the continent.

These fears encourage leaders to cling to office indefinitely, even when their countries need renewal, the report stated.

AllAfrica stated that guaranteeing former presidents dignified exits through pensions, state protection, healthcare, official residences, diplomatic roles, and national respect may cost less than the sanctions, protests, capital flight, violent unrest, weakened currencies, and civil war that can follow when leaders refuse to step aside.

The economic destruction caused by one overstaying presidency can set a country back generations, the report added. Africa must stop romanticizing leaders who never leave office, AllAfrica stated.

Mogae's legacy matters because it reminds Africa that a president can leave power and still retain dignity, respect, and relevance, the report said. Nelson Mandela's legacy matters because it proved that stepping down voluntarily can become a leader's finest hour, AllAfrica reported. The continent does not need presidents for life, the report concluded.