Good governance remains crucial in preventing unconstitutional changes of government in Africa, according to the African Union. Faced with governance challenges, which lead to the persistence of coups on the continent, the institution recommends the strengthening of democracy. At the 2nd African Union Reflection Forum on Unconstitutional Changes of Government in Africa held from March 18-19, 2024, in Accra, Ghana, leaders called on member states to renew their social contracts and strengthen democratic institutions.
The African Union continues to advocate good governance as a means of preventing unconstitutional changes of government in Africa. While the continent faces governance challenges, which causes the persistence of power grabs, leaders advocate dialogue and the consolidation of democratic governance.
“The situation has worsened. As we gather here, six member states of the Union have been suspended for the same reasons. Our people simply want to enjoy the true dividend of democracy. The one thing that is critical and for which we need our multilateral institutions to make significant investments is relationship building. The African Union and our regional bodies must invest in developing our national institutions and empowering citizens with the requisite knowledge to demand compliance and accountability from their governments.”
Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic – Ghana
Between 2020 and 2023, Africa has experienced nine military coups. The African Union is working to control the root causes of this scourge in order to effectively prevent its reappearance. At the 2nd African Union Reflection Forum on Unconstitutional Changes of Government in Africa held from March 18-19, 2024 in Accra, Ghana, leaders called on member states to renew their social contracts and strengthen democratic institutions. Even if sub-regional communities, like ECOWAS, have lifted sanctions imposed on West African countries following the recent coups, they maintain a policy of zero tolerance towards unconstitutional changes of government.
“Unconstitutional change of government is not only limited to coups. It also includes any maneuver geared towards the manipulation of constitutional norms and instrumentalization of the judiciary and legislature. The resurgence of coups is perceived largely to be attributable to concerns around lack of inclusivity and accountability in governance and decision-making processes. The recent coups in some of our member states are a clear indication that we must renew our social contract, strengthen our democratic institutions and refocus on delivery-oriented governance.”
Damtien Larbli Tchintchibidja, Vice president of the ECOWAS Commission – Togo
Taking into account the legitimate expectations of citizens and the fight against constitutional revision are some recommendations put forward by experts to put an end to coups in Africa. While women and youth are most affected by this scourge, experts emphasize the need to prioritize greater involvement of these segments of the population in decision-making.
“What African youth harbor is not just a mere dissatisfaction with the status quo, it is the hope for a different reality. Some of our recommendations include the development of national action plans on youth, peace and security. It is equally essential to consider new approaches when partnering with Africa.”
Cynthia Chigwenya, AU Youth Ambassador for Peace for Southern Africa – Zimbabwe
In its strategy for lasting peace, security and stability on the continent, the African Union reaffirms its commitment to upholding democratic principles and restoring constitutional governance in countries ruled by the military.