Ghana, 1982–6: the Politics of the P.N.D.C

In: The journal of modern African studies: a quarterly survey of politics, economics & related topics in contemporary Africa, Band 25, Heft 4, S. 613-642

Abstract

The history of the past three decades in Africa would seem to confirm that the rôle of the military in political and economic development may no longer be considered transient. Armed interventions have become institutionalised, if not constitutionalised, in many African states. By December 1985 no less than 60 successful and 71 attempted coups d'état had occurred in 37 states since January 1956.1 Just as most of the first generation of African politicians chose 'socialism' to explain and justify their policies, so 'revolution' has become the rallying cry for the military leaders, even though they have often quickly been content just to 'take over', and not to transform, the previous civilian régime.