Coups d’état in West Africa: ECOWAS’ call for firmness
In a recent interview with France 24, the President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, did not hesitate to express his opinion on the recent coups that have shaken the West African region. According to him, these events are unacceptable in the 21st century and he insists on the crucial role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in the defense of democracy.
Umaro Sissoco Embaló points out the responsibility of ECOWAS in the resurgence of these coups d’état. He believes that the organization should have taken firm measures from the first coup to discourage such behavior. According to him, the attitude of ECOWAS, which lifted sanctions in Mali, was a “big mistake”. He also believes that a transition is not acceptable in the case of Niger.
The credibility of ECOWAS is at stake, says the Guinean president. The organization faces the challenge of restoring constitutional order and restoring democracy in the region. The question of ECOWAS military intervention is therefore still on the table and the organization will have to make a firm decision to face these challenges.
Despite the rise of coups in the region, Umaro Sissoco Embaló says he does not fear such a scenario in his country. However, he warns against the return of the traditions of the 70s and 80s, where coups were commonplace. He calls for collective awareness to preserve the region’s democratic achievements and prevent a step backwards.
The situation in West Africa is therefore worrying, with the multiplication of coups d’état and threats to the stability of the region. ECOWAS faces a major challenge in reestablishing constitutional order and restoring democracy in these affected countries. It is crucial that the organization takes firm and coherent measures to face these challenges, and thus guarantee a democratic and peaceful future for West Africa.