Magufuli took a populist approach in trying to woo voters away from an invigorated opposition, and when that didn't work he reported to oppressive tactics.
With 70 percent of its people under 30 years, Nigeria needs to harness the strength in its youthful population.
He's a brooding, taciturn figure, who has dominated Eritrean politics since the 1970s, and there are few signs of an effective challenge to his rule.
If elected next month, Joe Biden must do more than turn the clock back to pre-Trump days.
Regional leaders should prevent crises related to power transfers and restore some sense of accountability in African politics.
