A Conversation with General Lamine Cissé

As Africa continues to move away from military and dictatorial rule, also known as “the strong man syndrome,” electoral competition in the various African countries will continue to present serious challenges, including violence. Security forces are sometimes seen as fanning the discontent, yet a well-commanded and informed army can make a great difference in keeping the peace in inflamed post-election environments as was the case in Togo or Niger. IFES and Partners for Democratic Change hosted a conversation with Senegalese General Lamine Cissé on the positive role security forces can play in elections and the steps that can be taken to ensure the military acts constructively. Joining General Cissé were Almami Cyllah, IFES Regional Director for Africa and Elizabeth Côté, IFES Country Director, Guinea.