They tell their citizens that they are not ready for democracy. They say their countrymen should wait for a brighter future - which will be determined for them. Meanwhile these African leaders travel throughout Europe having the time of their lives.
When their countrymen demand a better life, the evils of the colonial legacy and claims of malign outside influence are expounded as the reasons for the failure to achieve that objective.
The uprising in Burkina Faso shows what happens when a leader treats his people like children.
President Blaise Compaore, who ruled for more than 27 years, has finally been forced to resign. He was driven out of his country - in a 27-car convoy - to a luxury villa in neighbouring Ivory Coast.
The Burkina Faso army tried to take advantage of the power vacuum but has climbed down, thanks to people power and pressure from the AU.
The events in Burkina Faso tell us that the oppressed are finding their voice and are standing up to their leaders.
The shift in Zimbabwe's politics is becoming clearer. We are told that President Robert Mugabe's wife, Grace, harbours leadership ambitions and the battle for power within Zanu-PF is hotting up.
Just as in Burkina Faso, Zimbabweans are now talking openly about their future.
The political shifts in Brazil should be heeded by President Jacob Zuma and the ANC.
Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff was recently returned to office by the narrowest of margins.
The "Lula moment" that transformed Brazil is beginning to lose its lustre.
Moving closer to home, the cries of the destitute are becoming louder by the day.
The lesson for South Africa is that we should continue to hold our leadership accountable.
South Africa should look across its borders to find many of its answers.
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