Abstract
This chapter follows a “Rokkanian” perspective of critical junctures and historical legacies of political cleavages to explain institutionalization and strength of the opposition in African dominant party systems of the third wave of democratization. Competitive opposition is rooted in historical legacies of cleavages that were formed during the first pre-independence elections and survived the political vicissitudes after decolonization. The chapter develops a quantitative measurement of historical legacies of cleavages and successfully tests its purported positive influence based on a data set of 53 elections in 18 African party systems characterized by one-party dominance, clientelism and valence competition. In sum, to be more immune against factionalism as well as co-optation by the dominant party, opposition parties need a “brand identity” based on historical political conflict.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
