Title: Putsch in Africa: towards a normalization of military power?
Introduction :
The political situation in Africa is often marked by coups d’état, radical and often violent changes of government that occur when the army takes control of the country. While in some cases these coups may be seen as a way to end corruption and authoritarianism, they also raise concerns about stability and democracy in Africa. In this article, we will explore the implications of the rising appetite for power in African militaries and its consequences for political governance.
The current context:
The recent example of Burkina Faso is indicative of this dynamic. With the recently revealed failed coup d’état, it has become increasingly difficult to denounce the aspirations for power within some African armies. Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who is currently in power in Ouagadougou, denounced the coup attempt as a threat to state security. However, it is important to question the legitimacy of his position, since he himself came to power through a coup the previous year. This raises concerns about the country’s political stability and the military’s ability to play a constructive role in the democratic process.
The question of legitimacy:
One of the main concerns surrounding coups in Africa is the question of legitimacy. The soldiers who take power by force were not elected by the people and therefore do not represent a real popular will. In many cases, these putschists are unknown individuals, who were not chosen by the population and whose motivations remain unclear. This creates a climate of uncertainty and weakens citizens’ trust in military leaders.
The perpetuation of military power:
The greatest danger of coups in Africa is the normalization of military power. When a coup succeeds and a military man takes power, it can set a dangerous precedent. Other military personnel may be tempted to follow suit, hoping to reap the same rewards of popularity and popular support. This weakens democracy and strengthens the power of the military, who can end up ruling without accountability or democratic control.
The need for strong civil governments:
To counter this trend, it is essential to strengthen civil governments and promote a culture of democratic governance. Governments must be able to provide solutions to socio-economic and political problems, and must remain accountable to their citizens. It is also crucial to promote respect for human rights and sustainable development, in order to create stable and resilient societies in the face of the temptations of military power.
Conclusion :
The growing appetite for power within African militaries is a concern that requires careful attention. Coups d’état weaken countries’ democracy and political stability, and risk normalizing military power. To build a better future, it is essential to strengthen civil governments and promote a culture of democratic governance in Africa. This will enable African people to have legitimate, honest and responsible leaders, capable of meeting their needs and building prosperous societies.