Power as a Means of Corruption in African Society: A Study of Paul Tiyambe Zeleza’s Smouldering Charcoal

Power is a common aspect of political systems worldwide, but in Africa, the concept of power is often ambivalent, with corruption often causing hardship rather than improving living conditions. The interplay of power and corruption in modern African societies poses significant challenges to governance, economic growth, and social cohesion. This issue is more prevalent in African countries, where people are oppressed and their rights are violated. The study aims to provide a clearer understanding of the problem and its implications for African societies, highlighting the oppressive nature of people in societies where their rights are violated.This article examines the relationship between power and corruption in contemporary African societies, focusing on Paul Tiyambe Zeleza’s novel Smouldering Charcoal. The novel critiques the pervasive nature of power and corruption, highlighting the struggles faced by many African nations. The study begins with a literature review, examining themes of power and corruption in African literature and theoretical frameworks. It then conducts a detailed textual analysis of the novel, focusing on key themes, symbols, and narrative strategies. The socio-political context of the novel is explored to draw parallels with actual historical and contemporary issues in African countries. Comparing the themes in Smouldering Charcoal with other African literary works highlights broader regional and thematic trends.By investigating the depiction of power and corruption in Smouldering Charcoal, this article enhances the understanding of Zeleza’s work and offers insights into the complex interplay of governance, power, and societal well-being in African contexts. It contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of literature in reflecting and challenging social realities, particularly in post-colonial settings.