John Campbell

Africa in Transition

Campbell tracks political and security developments across sub-Saharan Africa.

Uganda and Burkina Faso: More Unrest

by John Campbell Friday, April 29, 2011

Video courtesy of NTV (Kenya)

Tensions persist in Uganda as president Yoweri Mussevini continues to respond to the “walk-to-work” demonstrations with a heavy hand. Reports indicate that at least two people died and another 120 were injured during today’s unrest. Yesterday, cameras also caught police tear gassing and beating opposition politician Kizza Bisegye. Read more »

Technology and Nigeria’s Elections

by John Campbell Tuesday, April 26, 2011

A man casts his vote at a polling unit in Dugbe neighbourhood during the governorship election in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria, April 26, 2011. (Akintunde Akinleye/Courtesy Reuters)

As Nigeria’s gubernatorial polls draw to a close today, I’m reminded of a noteworthy development during the entire 2011 election cycle: the use of technology. My Research Associate Asch Harwood writes today that new forms of connectivity—everything from mobile phones, to social media, to digital cameras—have improved citizen participation and election observation in Nigeria: Read more »