The Resurgence of Military Coups in Africa

The recent wave of military coups in West and Central Africa highlights a growing discontent among the population and dissatisfaction with their leaders. Across the continent, there have been about 100 documented coups since the 1950s, and Africa accounts for half of the 30 least developed countries in the world.

The resurgence of military takeovers can be attributed to diminishing democratic dividends, as citizens feel disillusioned by flawed elections, attempts to extend term limits, and misgovernance. Longtime leaders often hinder civic space and erode trust in democratic institutions.

"Africans do not think the idea of military rule is great, but it is the disappointment in what is supposed to be a democratic rule that is causing people to not be against it," explains Remi Adekoya, a politics lecturer at the University of York. The failure of leaders to significantly improve the lives of their populations and uphold the principles of democracy has left people questioning the benefits of the current system.

A study by research network Afrobarometer revealed that support for democracy and elections in Africa has declined over the past decade. Only 68% of respondents across 34 countries preferred democracy, down from 73% a decade ago. The study also found a correlation between substantial corruption in the presidential office and dissatisfaction with democracy.

These coup attempts often follow flawed elections and are seen by the perpetrators as a response to popular dissatisfaction with misgovernance. However, military regimes rarely provide a better alternative for good governance. In Mali, where the military has been in power since 2020, the Islamic State group has expanded its control. In Burkina Faso, economic growth slowed after two coups in 2020.

Military regimes are also associated with a breakdown in the rule of law, arbitrary arrests, bans on peaceful protests, and human rights violations. Human rights organization Freedom House warns that countries run by military regimes experience an increase in impunity for human rights violations committed by military forces.

While some external forces may support military regimes, such as former French colonies that perceive French interference, the overall sentiment among Africans is a desire for slight improvements to their fortunes, a sense of security, and free and fair elections. The majority of people are disillusioned with a system that has failed to work in their best interests.

Efforts to intervene should focus on strengthening democracies and supporting reforms rather than endorsing military interventions. The international community must work towards entrenching democratic values, promoting good governance, and addressing the root causes of political instability.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-31 News

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