In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged across Africa, as military coup d’états have reared their heads once again, shaking the foundations of the continent’s democratic progress. This resurgence comes as a surprise, given the optimism that had prevailed, with many believing that coups had been relegated to the pages of history, a relic of the era when military rule dominated African governance.

Remarkably, all but one of the eight countries affected by these coups share a common historical bond – they were former French colonies. These nations include Mali, Chad, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger, and, most recently, Gabon.

Mali: A troubling start

The wave of coups began in August 2020, with the overthrow of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in Mali by a group of Malian colonels led by Assimi Goita. The coup followed a backdrop of worsening security conditions, disputed legislative elections, and allegations of corruption. After considerable pressure and negotiations, the junta eventually agreed to cede power to a civilian interim administration tasked with overseeing an 18-month transition to elections in February 2022.

However, a power struggle ensued between the coup leader and the interim president, retired Colonel Bah Ndaw, resulting in a second coup in May 2021. Goita, who had served as acting vice president, assumed the presidency.

Chad: A Son’s Ascension

In April 2021, the Chadian military took control of the country following the death of President Idriss Deby during combat in the north, where he was engaged in fighting rebel forces. Instead of the parliamentary speaker assuming the presidency as mandated by the constitution, General Mahamat Idriss Deby, the president’s son, was named interim leader. This decision sparked riots in N’Djamena, the capital, which the military swiftly suppressed.

Guinea: A Presidential Overthrow

In Guinea, President Alpha Conde’s controversial decision to amend the constitution and seek a third term led to widespread unrest, ultimately emboldening the country’s Special Forces, led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, to stage a successful coup in September 2021.

Burkina Faso: A Rapid Change in Leadership

The inability to address the menace of bandits and terrorists, particularly Islamist militants, prompted Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba to oust President Roch Kabore in January 2022. However, barely eight months later, Captain Ibrahima Traoré seized power from Damiba on September 30, 2022.

Niger: A Recent Shift in Power

On July 26, 2023, General Abdourahmane Tchiani and members of Niger’s presidential guard took control from President Mohamed Bazoum, citing the “deteriorating security situation and bad governance.”

Gabon: The Most Recent Upheaval

Just last month, on August 30, 2023, top military commanders in Gabon forcibly truncated President Ali Bongo’s third term and invalidated the contentious election results that had declared him the victor.

A common thread weaving through these countries is the prolonged stay of leaders in power. The desire to cling to power has led to various means being employed, including amending constitutions, election manipulation, imprisonment of opposition figures, undermining opposition parties, suppressing individual freedoms, and curtailing press freedom.

A Wake-Up Call for African Leadership

The time has come for African leaders to recognize the value and aspirations of their people. African citizens seek good governance, respect for their rights, and functioning institutions that serve their interests. Justice, fairness, and the rule of law must be paramount.

The judiciary, as the last sanctuary of hope for the oppressed, must be impartial and reliable. A just and fair society can only thrive when the law applies to all, from the highest echelons of power to the most vulnerable citizens.

It is crucial that African leaders understand that their nations deserve leadership that serves the collective interest, not individual gain. The era of leaders clinging to power at all costs must give way to leadership that truly embodies service to the nation.

African nations must embrace justice, fairness, and the rule of law to ensure enduring stability, prosperity, and peace for all their citizens. Only then can Africa move forward on the path to genuine democracy and progress.