INTERROGATING THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON AFRICAN POLITICS

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of social media on African politics focusing on how these platforms have influenced political discourse, citizen engagement, and government responsibility and accountability. The paper uses secondary sources of data and the data is analyzed within the arguments of the Network Society Theory by Manuel Castells which postulates that societies are shaped by relationships between individuals and groups through the interplay of technology and networked forms of communication. Findings from the data reveal that social media has transformed the political landscape in African countries by shaping their structural, political and governance processes through public opinions and public policy mobilization and action. The findings also reveal that while social media has provided new avenues for political participation and information dissemination, it has also presented challenges such as the spread of misinformation and the manipulation of negative public sentiment. The paper therefore recommends a moderation of social media through legislation that guarantees freedom of speech but also protects individuals and government against falsehood and blackmail.