Title: The responsibility of African leaders in the multiplication of coups d’état: a necessary questioning
Introduction :
The question of coups d’état in Africa is a sensitive and recurring subject. In recent years, the continent has witnessed an increase in overthrows of governments by force of arms. But if condemnations rain down on the putschists, what can we say about the responsibility of the political leaders themselves? In this article, we will explore the courageous speech of President Umaro Sissoco Emballo of Guinea-Bissau, who questions the management and mistakes of his African counterparts in the fight against coups.
A bold speech:
In a speech on France 24, President Umaro Sissoco Emballo spoke courageously on the issue of coups in Africa. While most African leaders condemn these overthrows of government once they have occurred, the Guinea-Bissau president pointed the finger at the responsibility of political leaders in this spiral of violence.
An inconsistency that tarnishes democracy:
President Emballo raises the problem of the inconsistency of African leaders in the management of coups d’état. By announcing measures and sanctions that are not implemented, leaders weaken their credibility and tarnish the image of democracy on the continent. It is therefore essential to ask questions about the practice of power of these leaders, who are sometimes even implicitly complicit with the putschists.
Loyalty to the people:
One of the criticisms raised by President Emballo is that of the absence of loyalty to the people. Many African leaders tend to forget that they are elected to serve their people and not to enrich themselves personally or serve the interests of a clan. This betrayal of the people’s trust opens the way to the easy justifications of the putschists, who claim to act in the name of the oppressed people.
The decline of democracy:
Coups are just one illustration of the decline of democracy in Africa. The slow death of democracy occurs when political leaders behave as if they were untouchable, reproducing the same abuses that they denounced in their predecessors. This political deception harms not only democracy, but also the trust of citizens in their leaders.
Conclusion :
President Umaro Sissoco Emballo’s courageous speech raises a crucial question: the responsibility of African leaders in the proliferation of coups d’état. It is time to challenge these leaders’ practice of power and demand trustworthy leaders who can truly serve their people and preserve democracy. Africa must begin serious reflection to prevent coups from becoming a norm and to ensure a stable democratic future for its nations.