Current Happenings in Africa!

By; BethSheba Lazarus; U17mm1087

A series of military coups rocked West and Central Africa in 2023, sparking concerns over the political stability of the region. The coups, which took place in several countries, were largely driven by economic and political dissatisfaction, as well as the desire to tackle corruption and authoritarianism.

One of the most notable coups occurred in Cameroon, where military forces overthrew the long-standing President Paul Biya. Biya, who had been in power since 1982, was accused of engaging in corrupt practices and failing to address the country's economic and social issues. The military takeover was led by General David Okouyi, who promised to establish a transitional government and hold free and fair elections within the next two years.

Another major coup took place in Guinea, where the military ousted President Alpha Condé, who had been in power since 2010. Condé had recently won a controversial third term in office through a highly contested election, which many believed was rigged. The military takeover was led by Lieutenant Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who declared a nationwide curfew and promised to establish a new civilian government.

In Mali, the military overthrew interim President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, following months of political instability and protests against the transitional government. The coup, led by Colonel Assimi Goïta, who had also led a previous coup in August 2020, sparked international condemnation and concerns over the country's fragile democracy.

Other countries that experienced coups during this period included Chad, where the military council took over following the sudden death of President Idriss Déby, and Sudan, where military forces ousted the transitional government, citing economic and security concerns.

The coups in West and Central Africa have raised questions over the effectiveness of democratic institutions in the region and highlighted the persistent challenges of corruption and economic inequality. Many have also expressed concerns over the potential for violence and instability, as well as the impact on regional peace and security.

However, some have argued that the military coups could also present an opportunity for change and reform, particularly if the new governments are able to address the root causes of dissatisfaction and improve governance and accountability. In some cases, the coups have been met with widespread support and celebration, particularly by those who have long been frustrated with the previous regimes.

Overall, the recent military coups in West and Central Africa have highlighted the complexities of political and social change in the region, as well as the challenges of maintaining stability and democracy. The coming months and years will be crucial in determining the direction of these countries and the wider region, and much will depend on the actions and priorities of the new governments that emerge. 

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Posted at; 4:49pm