Effective Soundbites for Democracy: The Strategic Use of Political Slogans as Instruments of Steadfast Democratic Consciousness and Mobilisation in Africa

Abstract

Slogans play a crucial role in branding, mobilising collective actions and shaping democratic consciousness. The mobilisation of synergies is particularly important in contexts where socio-political engagement is politically risky. In many African countries, slogans serve as powerful tools for seeking and reinforcing democratic aspirations and ideals such as freedom and social justice. This study examines the effectiveness of political slogans as soundbites for democracy, decrypting their literary representation in African socio-democratic movements. The theoretical framework of the study is informed by critical discourse analysis, which highlights the role of language in constructing social realities and influencing socio- political behaviour. By focusing on the literary and rhetorical dimensions of slogans, the study offers insights into their persuasive power and positive impact on democratic struggles. The findings of this research contribute to the broader understanding of political communication in Francophone Africa, underlining the significance of slogans as strategies designed to energise the marginalised people for collective actions that solidify democratic aspirations.