Peace and Security Forum: Political transitions in Africa at the heart of the debates
The Peace and Security Forum, held in Lomé, Togo, was marked by intense discussions on the theme of political transitions in Africa. Organized by Togo in collaboration with the UN, the AU and the Sahel countries, this event attracted the attention of experts and policy makers.
One of the most notable interventions was that of Olivia Ragnaghnewendé Rouamba, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso. While her country is ruled by a military junta, she has defended the need for “African-style democracy”. According to her, democracy cannot be modeled on the Western model, but must take into account the specificities of African countries. She pointed out that even the United States went through difficult times before reaching its current position.
Abdoulaye Diop, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mali, also spoke at the forum. He stressed the importance of leaving the door open to countries in transition, so as not to discuss them without their participation. He cited a local proverb: “you can’t shave someone’s head when they’re not there.” This shows the importance of dialogue in political transition processes.
Niger, another military-led country in the Sahel region, was also present at the forum, although its delegation has remained low-key so far. A senior junta official is expected to speak on the final day of the forum.
On the sidelines of the forum, Togolese economist Kako Nubukpo underlined the crucial role of the economy in preventing breakdowns in the constitutional order. According to him, the political regimes that succeed today are those that attach great importance to economic development, sometimes to the detriment of electoral democracy. He nevertheless argues that the two can coexist, because the citizen needs both fundamental rights and economic prosperity. He insists that the economy is at the heart of political transitions, because it determines the distribution of wealth.
This Peace and Security Forum made it possible to highlight the issues linked to political transitions in Africa. The discussions highlighted the importance of dialogue, participation of local actors and the economy to ensure successful and sustainable political transitions in the region.