Practice and theory: Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde

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Book chapter

Title:	Practice and theory: Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde
Author:	Davidson, B.
Book title:	Africa: Problems in the Transition to Socialism
Year:	1986
Pages:	95-113
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	Guinea-Bissau Cape Verde
Subject:	popular participation
Abstract:	In 1974, the PAIGC entered independence in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde without possessing the economic structures of mass participation. Other forms of participation had won the liberation war and cleared the way for further progress; but now it would be the weight of economic influence that would be decisive in shaping the future. By 1977, mass participation might still be an honoured theme in Guinea-Bissau, but too often, the practical affairs of daily life no longer made it seem essential. There was criticism from the rank and file, from the rural militants, and from the 'left' in the leadership, leading to a military coup in 1980. Several years after the coup there was still little to suggest that the institutions of mass participation were being revived. The experience of Cape Verde, however, shows that even the economically most vulnerable country can defend its policies if the appropriate political choices are maintained, and can progress towards a widening mass participation. Notes, ref.