Issues and strategies in promoting democracy and good governance: Nigerian and Malaysian examples

Abstract

This paper examines both the political structures and institutions of Nigeria and Malaysia with a view of highlighting areas of similarities and differences in their modus operandi. While Malaysia has witnessed a tremendous boost and radicalism after 20 years of Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's rule, Nigeria since the restoration of democracy in 1999, after a long military rule, did not yield a proper institutionalization of democratic principles. There have been cries against anti- and undemocratic practices of the eleven years old civilian government in Nigeria. The two countries under review operate a Federal Constitution, promote the principles of rule of law, protect the rights and liberties of the citizens but differ in the system of government. Malaysia operates parliamentary system while Nigeria is built on a presidential system. What went wrong and how can democracy be promoted and consolidated? The paper explores answers to the above question. The conclusion of this article is drawn on the premise of providing plausible suggestions that will promote democracy and good governance in the two countries.