Authoritarianism, post-conflict reconstruction and democratisation in Africa: the Rwandan experience

Existing studies on post-conflict reconstruction strategy in Rwanda tilts more towards the relative economic and post-conflict reconstruction achievements. Yet very few have interrogated the implications of Paul Kagame's Benevolent-Dictator governance model on democratisation in Rwanda. Therefore, relying on secondary and primary sources, including interviews, this study examines the implications of likely consequences of Paul Kagame governance model on democratisation and nation building in Rwanda. Findings suggest that though Rwanda made significant strides in post-conflict reconstruction, economic and infrastructure development, the regime's disdain for dissent voices, alternative parties; human rights violations, and; media censoring force Rwandans to make difficult choices between freedom and development. The social and political gaps occasioned by growing authoritarianism greatly undermine recorded success and negatively impact the potential for further development in Rwanda. Hence, the need for the Rwandan government to devise strategies for greater citizen participation, respect for basic rights and liberalisation of the political space.