POSTCOLONIAL AFRICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT: NAVIGATING TRADITION AND MODERNITY

Abstract

This study investigates the enduring tension between tradition and modernity in postcolonial African political philosophy, focusing on the interaction between indigenous governance systems such as chieftaincy, councils of elders, and consensus-based leadership and Western political ideologies introduced during colonial rule. Using a qualitative, philosophical, and comparative approach, the study analyzes key African political thought, complemented by case studies from Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya. The findings reveal that while Western models like democracy and liberalism emphasized individual rights and centralized structures, they often undermined the communal ethos and participatory governance inherent in traditional African systems. However, hybrid governance frameworks have emerged, blending indigenous principles with modern institutions to foster inclusivity, cultural relevance, and political legitimacy. These models have shown varying degrees of success in improving stability, particularly in rural contexts where traditional leaders remain influential. The study concludes that synthesizing tradition and modernity is not only philosophically viable but also politically necessary for sustainable governance in Africa. It recommends formal recognition and structured integration of indigenous systems into national governance, along with ongoing dialogue between traditional authorities and democratic institutions. Ultimately, the research calls for a pluralistic, context-driven approach to governance that honours African cultural identity while engaging productively with global political norms.