In UN speak, corruption poses a serious development challenge to Africa. In the political realm, it undermines democracy and good governance by flouting or even subverting formal processes. Corruption in elections and in legislative bodies reduces accountability and distorts representation in policymaking; corruption in the judiciary compromises the rule of law; and corruption in public administration results in the unfair provision of services. More generally, corruption erodes the institutional capacity of government as procedures are disregarded, resources are siphoned off, and public offices are bought and sold. At the same time, corruption undermines the legitimacy of government and such democratic values as trust and tolerance.
All forms of government are susceptible to political corruption. In Africa corruption is so common that it is expected when ordinary businesses or citizens interact with government officials. The end-point of political corruption is a kleptocracy, literally "rule by thieves". It is a top down scenerio that has held up development in Africa.
Why would the Mo Ibrahim foundation (note. the Clinton foundation etc) offer $5m prize for Africa's most effective head of state? When is it OK for a businessman to adopt a continent? What shocking arrogance! "Suddenly all the mansions, cars, food, wine is withdrawn" and for this reason, Mo has decided to give away money bigger than the Nobel Peace Prize. How shallow! Thank you but no thanks. The usual suspects may be fine with the idea but it is not a way out of the mess in Africa. The same Tony Blair, Bill Ciinton, Madela et all have always been there with their eyes wide shut.
Africa does not function and will not function until we find a little bit of ethics, morality and deep concern about order and relationships in a more productive and constructive way of life in our selfish leaders. That statement came from a simple man, FREE of charge. Our egotistic leaders do not need a prize and more advice, it is the will to do the tasks they have been asked by the people to perform. But they are still too drunk from the job title to understand simple issues. Successful African leaders should not need an incentive in order to deliver measurable benefits to their citizens in terms of basic infrastructures like schools, universities, roads, basic medical care, water, public transport, security, and life and power generation.
