Make noise, I’ve been arrested’- Gabon’s Ali Bongo
Table Of Contents
Introduction: Africa's Rising Coups D'éTat Trend.
Recent Coups: Insights into Gabon and Niger Upheavals.
A Global Perspective: Africa's Coup D'éTat Concern.
The Escalation of Coups D'éTat in Africa: 2020-2023.
Delving into Gabon and Niger's Coups D'éTat.
The World Reacts to Africa's Coups D'éTat.
Historical Backdrop: Coups D'éTat and Conflicts in Africa.
The Ramifications of Africa's Coups D'éTat Culture.
Wrapping Up: Reflecting on Africa's Coups D'éTat Scenario.
Introduction: Africa's Rising Coups D'éTat Trend
From 2020 to 2023 there has been 8 successful coup in West and central Africa.
In recent years, the political landscape of Africa's Central and Western regions has been marred by a series of coups, with the latest incidents occurring in Gabon and Niger. This alarming trend highlights the fragility of the political systems in these regions and raises pressing questions about the role of the global community in addressing these crises. The rise of "Coups D'éTat Africa" epidemic.
Recent Coups: Insights into Gabon and Niger Upheavals
Gabon: On August 30, 2023, Gabon witnessed a significant shift in its political dynamics. The Bongo family, which had held power for 56 years, was ousted in a military coup. This upheaval came shortly after the announcement of the general election results, which declared incumbent president Ali Bongo Ondimba as the winner. The coup leaders placed Bongo under house arrest, and his son, Noureddin Bongo Valentin, was arrested on charges of "high treason." The junta appointed Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema, previously a bodyguard for Bongo’s late father, as the transitional leader.
Niger: A month earlier, on July 26, 2023, Niger experienced a similar fate. President Mohamed Bazoum was detained in a coup led by the country's presidential guard. General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the Presidential Guard commander, proclaimed himself the leader of the new military junta. The coup leaders cited their intention to address the nation's economic and security challenges as the primary reason for their actions.
These coups, along with six others in the span of just three years (2020-2023), have sent shockwaves throughout the continent. The recurring pattern suggests that military generals, once close allies of the sitting premiers, are now taking control, sidelining their former associates.
A Global Perspective: Africa's Coup D'éTat Concern
We don’t know where might be affected by coup plotting next, but places like Cameroon, Togo, Senegal, Benin are all struggling in various ways.- Simon Rynn(RUSI)
The frequency of these coups has not only raised concerns within Africa but has also garnered attention from the global community. The African Union and several European nations have expressed their alarm. Yet, the question remains: Why is the international community hesitant to take decisive action? Is it only when conflicts arise between European nations that they are labeled as wars, prompting immediate global attention? Does the rest of the world view the unrest in Africa as mere disturbances, unworthy of the same level of concern?
In today's interconnected digital age, geographical distances have become irrelevant. It is imperative for the global community to come together, setting aside differences of race, color, gender, religion, and more, to find a collective solution. The onus is on every individual to promote cohesion and inclusivity, addressing the pressing issues that our global family faces.
In this article, we delve deeper into the intricacies of the coups in Gabon and Niger, exploring their causes, implications, and the broader context of political instability in Africa's Central and Western regions.
The Escalation of Coups D'éTat in Africa: 2020-2023
The political landscape of Africa's Central and Western regions has been in turmoil, with a staggering eight coups taking place in just three years. This surge in coups has not only destabilized individual nations but has also cast a shadow over the entire continent's prospects for peace and democracy.
Overview: The 8 Distinct Coups in Africa
From 2020 to 2023, Central and West Africa have been the epicenters of political upheavals. While this article delves deeper into the recent coups in Gabon and Niger, it's essential to understand the broader context. The continent has been plagued by a series of coups, each with its unique triggers and outcomes. However, a closer examination reveals certain patterns and commonalities among these events.
Patterns and Similarities: Identifying Common Threads
Region: Central and West Africa have been the primary regions affected by this coup culture.
Military's Role: The military has consistently been at the forefront of these coups, often justifying their actions as a means to restore order or address governance failures.
Public Sentiment: Surprisingly, many of these coups were met with significant public approval, indicating a deep-seated disillusionment with the existing political order.
Leadership Crisis: Allegations of corruption, misgovernance, and contested elections often preceded these coups.
Security Concerns: A deteriorating security environment, marked by internal conflicts and external threats, has frequently been cited as a justification for military intervention.
Differences: Unique Aspects of Each Coup
Outcomes: The aftermath of these coups has been varied. While some have led to a change in leadership, others have been unsuccessful in achieving their stated objectives.
International Reactions: The global community's response has been inconsistent. Some coups have been condemned, while others have received minimal international attention.
Post-Coup Governance: The governance structures established post-coup have varied, with some nations transitioning to civilian rule, while others remain under military control.
Delving into Gabon and Niger's Coups D'éTat
The political landscape of Africa, particularly in Central and West Africa, has been marked by a series of coups, with Gabon and Niger being the most recent victims. The coups in these countries not only highlight the fragile nature of their political systems but also underscore the broader challenges of governance in the region.
Gabon: Political Dynamics, Reactions, Implications, and Aftermath
If this is confirmed, it’s another military coup, which increases instability in the whole region-Josep Borrell(EU)
Political Landscape Leading up to the Coup:
Gabon, an oil-rich nation, has been under the dominant rule of the Gabonese Democratic Party and the Bongo family for over half a century. Ali Bongo Ondimba, commonly known as Ali Bongo, had been at the helm for nearly 14 years. His tenure was marred by allegations of election fraud and widespread corruption. Despite these challenges, he secured another term as president in the general elections held on August 26, 2023. However, this victory was short-lived as a military coup swiftly followed, bringing an abrupt end to the Bongo family's long-standing rule over Gabon.
Reactions, Implications, and Aftermath:
The international community expressed grave concern over the coup in Gabon. France, in particular, condemned the coup and emphasized the importance of respecting the election results. The African Union Commission echoed these sentiments, condemning the coup and advocating for a peaceful transition back to democratic governance. Some segments, however, viewed the coup as a justified response to years of alleged election malpractices and poor governance. The coup has raised alarms about potential regional instability, especially given that it was the eighth successful coup in West and Central Africa since 2020. In the immediate aftermath, jubilant scenes were witnessed in Gabon's capital, with citizens openly celebrating and embracing the soldiers. The future remains uncertain, with Ali Bongo reportedly under house arrest and the government in a state of paralysis.
Niger: Political Dynamics, Reactions, Implications, and Aftermath
It should be quite clear to all players in the Republic of Niger that the leadership of the ECOWAS region and all lovers of democracy around the world will not tolerate any situation that incapacitates the democratically elected government of the country-Nigerian President Bola Tinubu
Political Landscape Leading up to the Coup:
Niger witnessed a historic moment two years ago when Mohamed Bazoum was elected president, marking the country's first peaceful democratic transition since gaining independence in 1960. However, this democratic milestone was overshadowed on July 26, 2023, when members of the presidential guard orchestrated a coup. The coup leaders justified their actions, citing the country's deteriorating security situation and stagnant economic growth as primary concerns. Despite the presence of foreign military bases and increased international support, the leadership had been struggling to curb insurgent attacks.
Reactions, Implications, and Aftermath:
The international community, especially the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), expressed deep concern over the coup in Niger. ECOWAS demanded the immediate reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum within a week. The African Union mirrored these sentiments, condemning the coup and calling for a peaceful return to democratic governance. The coup has significant ramifications not just for Niger but for the entire Sahel region. Niger's strategic alliance with western nations, particularly France, the US, and the European Union, in combating insurgency and illegal migration to Europe, is now at risk. Post-coup, ECOWAS continues to demand the reinstatement of President Bazoum, who remains under house arrest. However, the coup leaders seem undeterred by these international calls.
The political upheavals in Gabon and Niger have had profound impacts on their respective countries and have garnered significant international attention. The events serve as a stark reminder of the intricate political dynamics in Africa and the challenges of governance in the region.
The World Reacts to Africa's Coups D'éTat
The whole area – starting with Central African Republic, then Mali, then Burkina Faso, now Niger, maybe Gabon – it’s in a very difficult situation and certainly the ministers … have to have a deep thought on what is going on there and how we can improve our policy with respect to these countries- JOSEP BORRELL (EU)
In the wake of the recent coups in Africa, the global community has been swift and unequivocal in its response. The world watches with bated breath as the continent grapples with a resurgence of military takeovers, threatening the fragile democratic structures that many nations have worked hard to establish. The international community's reaction has been a mix of concern, condemnation, and calls for a return to constitutional order.
African Union's Response: Actions and Stances on the Coups
Governments which come to power by unconstitutional means shall not be allowed to participate in the activities of the Union… - AU (African Union)
The African Union (AU) has been steadfast in its opposition to military coups. The Constitutive Act, adopted in July 2000, explicitly rejects governments that come to power through unconstitutional means. Article 30 of the Act states, “Governments which come to power by unconstitutional means shall not be allowed to participate in the activities of the Union…”.
In the face of the recent coups, the AU's response has been firm. At the African Union summit in February 2022, leaders unanimously condemned the unconstitutional changes of government. Bankole Adeoye, the head of the AU's Peace and Security Council, emphasized that military governments would not be tolerated. As a result, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Sudan faced suspension from the AU.
However, the AU's stance has not been without criticism. While it declared "zero tolerance" for undemocratic power shifts in February 2023, accusations of double standards arose when Chad was not suspended following the army's takeover after President Idriss Déby's death.
Despite the challenges, the AU remains committed to fostering democratic governance in Africa, even as it grapples with enforcing its policies and ensuring continental peace and stability.
Global Insight: European and International Concerns on Gabon & Niger's
The international community has expressed deep concern over the coups in Gabon and Niger:
Gabon:
The United Nations, France, the African Union Commission, Russia, China, and the European Union have all condemned the coup and expressed concerns about the potential for instability spreading across the Sahel region.
Niger:
In response to the coup in Niger, Germany, France, and the European Union suspended development aid and budget support. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) demanded the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum within a week, while the African Union called for a peaceful return to democratic constitutional order.
The recent events underscore the concerns about regional instability, security, and the resilience of democratic institutions in Africa. Analysts argue that weak democratic processes, deepening inequality, corrupt administrations, and fragile ethnic and cultural accords in Francophone West Africa and the Sahel make these regions especially susceptible to coups.
Historical Backdrop: Coups D'éTat and Conflicts in Africa
Between January 1950 and July 2023, there were some 220 successful and attempted coups in Africa - Statista
The African continent, rich in culture and history, has been marred by a series of conflicts that have left deep scars on its socio-political landscape. Understanding the historical context of these conflicts is crucial in comprehending the current state of affairs and the recurring nature of political instability in the region.
A Glimpse: Past Civil Wars and Conflicts in Africa
From the 1960s onwards, Africa has been a battleground for numerous civil wars and conflicts. The last three years (2020-2023) have been particularly tumultuous for West and Central Africa, with eight coups shaking the stability of the continent. The Somali War, one of the oldest ongoing conflicts in East Africa, has been raging since 1980. Other notable conflicts include the civil wars in Sudan, Chad, Angola, Liberia, Nigeria, Somalia, Burundi, Rwanda, and Sierra Leone.
Here are some significant conflicts that have shaped the continent's history:
Mozambique Civil War: Post-independence from Portugal in 1975, Mozambique plunged into a civil war between the government and the Mozambique Resistance Movement (RENAMO).
Angolan Civil War: Spanning from 1975 to 2002, this war saw factions like the MPLA and UNITA vying for control.
Liberian Civil Wars: Liberia witnessed two devastating civil wars that resulted in significant casualties and displacement.
Sierra Leone Civil War: Lasting from 1991 to 2002, this conflict was marked by human rights abuses and the use of child soldiers.
Sudanese Civil Wars: Sudan grappled with two major civil wars driven by political, ethnic, and religious tensions.
The Second Congo War: Often referred to as the Great War of Africa, this conflict began in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1998 and involved multiple African nations.
With over 549 conflicts recorded by the African Journal Online and more than 35 armed conflicts as per the Geneva Convention Academy reports, the continent has been a hotspot for political unrest and violence.
Recurring Instability: The Persistent Nature of Political Unrest in Africa
Political instability in Central and West Africa is not a new phenomenon. The region's history is punctuated with coups, civil wars, and conflicts. Factors such as weak democratic processes, deep-rooted inequality, rampant corruption, and fragile ethnic and cultural ties have exacerbated the situation. The classification of conflicts into political, civil unrest, identity, resource-based, and terrorism further underscores the complexity of the issues at hand.
The recurring nature of this instability is a clarion call for urgent intervention. Addressing the root causes, promoting good governance, ensuring transparency, and fostering inclusivity are paramount. Only by understanding and addressing the historical context can we hope for a stable and prosperous future for the African continent.
The Ramifications of Africa's Coups D'éTat Culture
I think it’s largely because of the economic situations within the sub-region, especially in those countries.- Daniel Amarteye Anim (Director of Research & Economic Analysis at Business & Financial Times)
The African continent, with its vast resources and vibrant cultures, stands at a crossroads. While its potential is undeniable, the challenges it faces are multifaceted and deeply entrenched. The rise of coup culture further complicates the landscape, casting a shadow over the continent's future.
The Broad Spectrum of Issues Africa Faces
Africa grapples with a myriad of challenges that span across various sectors:
Agricultural Development: Ensuring food security remains a pressing concern.
Crime and Violence: Including alarming rates of domestic violence.
Environmental Initiatives: Addressing the urgent need for sustainability and climate change mitigation.
Equal Opportunity: Ensuring social, racial, and religious inclusivity.
Trade Regulation: Addressing both tariff and non-tariff barriers and regulatory obstacles.
Financial Governance: Ensuring transparent and effective financial market regulation.
Foreign Direct Investment: Efficient generation and management of FDI.
Gender Equality: Bridging the gender gap in all sectors.
Public Sector Governance: Enhancing the efficiency and efficacy of government services.
Health Services: Addressing communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, and the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Education: Providing high-quality education for all, including digital literacy.
Infrastructure: Developing transport, energy, water, sanitation, and ICT infrastructure.
Job Creation: Addressing the rising unemployment rates.
Natural Resource Management: Ensuring sustainable and equitable resource utilization.
Conflict Resolution: Peaceful negotiation and elimination of armed conflicts.
Poverty Reduction: Implementing effective strategies to uplift the economically disadvantaged.
Regional Integration: Emphasizing effective implementation of integration agendas.
Private Sector Development: Especially focusing on micro, small, and medium enterprises.
Urban Development: Paving the way for smart cities and sustainable urbanization.
The Future in the Wake of Recurring Coups
The resurgence of coups in Africa, particularly in Central and West Africa, has profound implications:
Political Instability: The frequent upheavals erode the very foundation of governance, leading to a loss of faith in democratic processes.
Economic Impact: The shadow of instability deters foreign investments and hinders economic growth, deepening the chasm of poverty and inequality.
Security Challenges: Coups often give rise to armed conflicts, leading to humanitarian crises and widespread displacement.
Regional Instability: The ripple effect of a coup in one nation can destabilize neighboring countries.
Democracy and Governance: The very essence of democracy is threatened, undermining the rule of law and human rights.
International Relations: The international community views nations plagued by coups with skepticism, straining diplomatic ties.
The implications of this coup culture are far-reaching and demand immediate attention. A collaborative effort from African nations, regional bodies, and the global community is imperative. Only through collective action, emphasizing good governance, democratic strengthening, and conflict resolution, can Africa chart a course towards a brighter, more stable future.
Wrapping Up: Reflecting on Africa's Coups D'éTat Scenario
As we reflect upon the current state of affairs in Africa, it becomes evident that the continent stands at a pivotal juncture. The recurring coup culture, particularly in Central and West Africa, has cast a shadow over the future, raising concerns about political stability, economic growth, and regional harmony.
Current Affairs and the Road Ahead for Africa
Political Instability: The frequent coups have eroded the foundation of governance, leading to a loss of faith in democratic processes.
Economic Impact: The shadow of instability deters foreign investments, hinders economic growth, and deepens poverty.
Security Concerns: Coups often lead to armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, and widespread displacement.
Regional Implications: The ripple effect of a coup in one nation can destabilize neighboring countries.
Democracy at Risk: The coup culture threatens the essence of democracy, undermining the rule of law and human rights.
Diplomatic Strains: The international community views nations plagued by coups with skepticism, affecting diplomatic ties.
Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach, emphasizing good governance, democratic strengthening, and conflict resolution. The path forward demands collaboration, innovation, and a long-term commitment to ensure a brighter future for Africa.
Advocating for Global Awareness and Intervention
Unified Effort: African governments, regional organizations, and the international community must come together to address the challenges head-on.
Strengthening Institutions: Emphasizing the importance of robust democratic institutions to ensure political stability.
Economic Development: Fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and foreign investment.
Conflict Prevention: Investing in measures to prevent conflicts and ensure swift resolution.
Promote Good Governance: Ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in governance.
Global Awareness: The international community must be made aware of the gravity of the situation and the implications of inaction.
Innovative Solutions: Tackling the multifaceted challenges requires innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of the continent.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by Africa are undeniably complex, but they are not insurmountable. With collective effort, determination, and a shared vision, Africa can overcome these challenges and chart a course towards a stable, prosperous, and harmonious future. The time for global intervention and awareness is now. Let us come together to ensure a brighter future for Africa and its people.
Reference List
Timeline: What has happened in Niger since the coup? - Al Jazeera
Africa’s coup epidemic: Has democracy failed the continent? - Al Jazeera
A timeline of coups in Africa over three years - Business Insider Africa
A look at the coups across West and Central Africa - ABC News
Frontiers | African coups in the COVID-19 era: A current history
Africa: Seven coups in three years - The Guardian Nigeria News
Recent coups in Africa ‘ll make leaders sit up – Experts - Vanguard
Gabon's military coup has overthrown a powerful political dynasty - CNN
What caused the coup in Niger? An expert outlines three driving factors - The Conversation
Gabon coup: A timeline of political upheaval in Africa since 2020 - Firstpost
Gabon coup attempt: Government says situation under control - BBC
African Union Niger Coup: Navigating a Complex Political Landscape - The News Lands
Curfew Uplifted: Assessing the Intricacies of Niger's Political Landscape Post-Coup - Beijing Times
Coups in Africa: It’s time politicians accepted soldiers as rival for power, By Olu Fasan - Vanguard
Gabon : International Pressure Accentuates - Cameroon Tribune
The coup in Gabon and lessons for African leaders - Guardian
Gabon partially suspended from Commonwealth after coup - BBC
Gabon coup: How France's neo-colonial empire in its former colonies is being challenged - CNN
Gabon reopens borders three days after military coup - The Guardian
Niger coup: The junta, the failing diplomacy, and the dilemma of democracy - Cocorioko
Niger : Departure Of French Troops In Gestation - Cameroon Tribune
How to Respond to Niger’s Coup — and Prevent the Next One - USIP
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