Restructuring an Authoritarian State: 'Democratic Renewal' in Benin

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Periodical article

Title:	Restructuring an Authoritarian State: 'Democratic Renewal' in Benin
Author:	Allen, Chris
Year:	1992
Periodical:	Review of African Political Economy
Volume:	19
Issue:	54
Period:	July
Pages:	42-58
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Benin
Subjects:	democracy multiparty systems Politics and Government
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1080/03056249208703952
Abstract:	Benin was an early example of transition from single-party rule to competitive multiparty politics, achieved through high levels of popular urban mobilization in 1989-1990. This article analyses the causes of the downfall of the former regime of President Kérékou, attributing it to the erosion of State capacity and strength, growing corruption, the economic crisis, donor pressures, and the expansion in the scope and strength of civil society and changes in consciousness arising from political struggle. The new regime is however limited in policy choice by debt and a structural adjustment programme, and has distanced itself rapidly from the workers and students who brought it to power. The immediate prognosis for democratic survival is thus poor. Bibliogr.