Abstract

QUASHIGAH, Kofi. Religion and the republican state in Africa: The need for a distanced relationship. Afr. hum. rights law j. [online]. 2014, vol.14, n.1, pp.78-92. ISSN 1996-2096.

This article argues for a separation of religions from governance in the republican states. In this era of expansion of the concept of sovereignty and the generalisation of human rights, the influence of dominant religions on legislation and governance cannot be justified. Religion, if it is to be true to itself, should not allow its use for political gain and neither should it seek to usurp political power to advance its goals. To do otherwise will set the stage for the abuse of the rights of sections of citizens. The majority of African states are republican and it is argued that, having regard to the diverse nature of these states, it will be better for national cohesion if religions are excluded from the political and legal systems.

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