THE POLITICAL CULTURE OF GERONTOCRACY AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Countries in African continent have over the years suffered from the culture of gerontocracy. The limited opportunities open to the younger generation as a result of gerontocracy have affected youth empowerment. This research takes a cursory look at the concept of gerontocracy, African political make up during the pre and post colonial periods, and causes of gerontocracy as they affect youth empowerment and further gives recommendations on how to reduce this culture of political gerontology and improve the empowerment of youths. Using the method of critical analysis the researchers find out that gerontocracy can be an enriching and productive stage marked by a lifelong process of political growth and development but it is also, detrimental to youth empowerment. To this effect, the researchers recommend that politicians above the civil service year should not be allowed to hold political positions and that, youths with some level of education and exposure be given a space to participate in the politics of their country.