Title: Coups in Africa: a persistent threat to democratic stability
Introduction: For several decades, Africa has faced a series of coups d’état that threaten the democratic stability of the region. In a recent interview with France 24, the President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, expressed his indignation at these events and called into question the responsibility of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). in their prevention. In this article, we will discuss President Embaló’s remarks and examine the issues surrounding these coups.
Rejection of coups in the 21st century: According to Umaro Sissoco Embaló, coups are unacceptable in the modern era. He recalls that these acts are anachronistic and go against established democratic principles. President Embaló also emphasizes that ECOWAS, as a regional body, has a crucial responsibility in preserving stability and constitutional order within its member states.
The need for ECOWAS intervention: Faced with the coups that recently occurred in Niger, Mali and Gabon, ECOWAS attempted to negotiate with the putschists in order to restore constitutional order. However, Umaro Sissoco Embaló believes that ECOWAS should have adopted a firmer stance from the first coup, in order to discourage this type of behavior. He emphasizes that the organization now has the responsibility to decide whether military intervention is necessary to restore democratic order.
The errors of ECOWAS in its sanctions strategy: The president of Guinea-Bissau criticizes ECOWAS for having lifted sanctions against Mali too quickly. He believes that this was a mistake, because it did not contribute to the stability of this country. Furthermore, he emphasizes that the current transition in Niger is not acceptable, because it goes against democratic principles. Umaro Sissoco Embaló warns of the need to take strong measures to prevent the spread of coups within the region.
Conclusion: President Umaro Sissoco Embaló’s remarks highlight the continuing threat of coups in Africa. Through his criticism of ECOWAS, he underlines the importance of taking firm measures to preserve democracy and political stability in the region. It is now up to ECOWAS to decide how best to act to put an end to this threat and guarantee a democratic future for West Africa.