The escalating costs of elections in Africa foster corruption and fiscal irresponsibility, undermining democracy and enabling elite control over politics, with dire consequences for public welfare.

Elections are fundamental to democracy, but their financial implications are escalating. Between now and 2027, many African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, and Republic of the Congo, will hold elections. This is at a time when the rising cost of politics and campaign spending is rapidly changing the electoral landscape across the continent, with implications for democracy's health.

Campaigns, technological advancements, security, and other logistics contribute to these costs and make money an essential, if not central, part of politics. Money is a very necessary component of political competition. While money does not automatically guarantee electoral success, victory comes rarely to those with insufficient financial resources. Many people, especially women and younger people, get excluded from politics because they are unable to mobilise the funds required.

Political aspirants use diverse sources to raise money

Money gives an advantage to better-financed candidates and gives financiers power over elected officials and citizens. Those who present themselves for election are either wealthy enough to finance their own campaigns or must make personal sacrifices, including incurring debt, to raise the necessary funds.

Many rely on wealthy financiers for backing, expecting some payback in return. Those who fail in their bid incur financial losses...