Two years out of the state house, Thornburgh still maintains a muscular political network.

During 1949-60, politically ambitious young Congolese were busy constructing political networks for themselves.

Their name recognition, established political networks and ability to raise money enables these hopefuls to mount a candidacy quickly.

Behind the scenes, they have been eagerly tapping into their families' extended financial and political networks.

As Davis puts it, 'the neighbourhood, the country territory and the political network are linked by honour'.

This would also entitle these companies to several privileges, such as "access to an international political network at a high level".

"They know how to use their political networks and do so superbly."

Last year, he campaigned for Democrats, wielding an impressive e-mail list, bankroll and political network.

Social media helped women engage more people in the revolutions by reducing distinctions between social and political networks.