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09/03/2004: "Clan Democracy in Sudan"

I was fascinated by these pictures of an election of traditional chiefs in Sudan (In Pictures - NEWS.BBC.CO.UK)

Elections are held regularly and musical instruments are used to woo voters.


During the elections for Panyion clan chief, youth clad in traditional attire campaigned vigorously for their favourite candidates.


Voters lined up behind their favourite candidates at the elections and a head count was conducted. Neutral observers from a different clan were invited to ensure fair play.


According to Dinka traditions, women were not allowed to vote but they were spectators at the process. Even men who had left their villages for a long period were barred from the ballot as they had "lost touch" with their roots.


And after a hectic struggle Thondo, a local farmer was elected the new chief of the Panyion clan. He has powers to raise local taxes, determine community disputes and send his people to war.

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