Former President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has expressed his deep disappointment at the resurgence of military coups in West Africa, warning that this trend threatens to undermine the democratic gains made in the region.
Speaking at the launch of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s autobiography in Abuja, Nigeria, Akufo-Addo noted that military coups are being seen as a solution to instability, economic challenges, and unpopular government policies.
This concern is not unfounded, given the recent spate of military interventions in countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.
President Akufo-Addo’s warning serves as a reminder that the region’s democratic progress is fragile and reversible. As he aptly put it, “we have our work cut out for us all over again to try to build and consolidate the democratic structures in our countries”.
Mr Akufo-Addo’s call to action is particularly significant, given the historical context of West Africa’s struggles with democracy.
The region’s transition to multi-party democracy was marked by years of hesitation, argument, and experimentation.
However, as President Akufo-Addo emphasized, the consensus is clear: multi-party democracy is the most suitable form of governance for the continent.
In fact, research has shown that multi-party democracy is essential for promoting development, stability, and human rights in Africa.
Moreover, a report by International IDEA highlights the importance of strengthening democratic institutions, promoting women’s participation, and regulating party financing to consolidate democracy in Africa.
