Influence of Television on Voting Patterns in African Elections

The broadcast media, such as television, provides platforms for individuals and members of society to contribute on issues of public interest. These contributions can range from discussing the stewardship of political officeholders seeking reelection to addressing perceived issues with electoral laws that may incite violence. This book focuses on the influence of television on voters' voting patterns during elections in Africa. It emphasizes the role of mass media as a source of information for political enlightenment and its impact on shaping voting behaviors. The book delves into the concepts of election and vote, defining election as the process of consensus-building for representation in public offices and highlighting voting as the foundation of political equality and a means for ordinary citizens to influence others within the political system. Furthermore, the book explores the effects of the press on voting patterns and electoral participation, public opinion on elections, the mass media's role in the electoral process, and specifically, television's influence on political programs.