In a call to action, the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) has urged African leaders to prioritize constitutional respect and the well-being, peace, and security of their citizens. This plea comes amidst a disconcerting surge in coups across eight countries in West and Central Africa over the past three years, with Gabon being the most recent victim.
During a webinar titled “Making Meaning of Democratic Reversals in West Africa,” the forum examined the formidable challenges to democratic governance in the region and explored strategies to safeguard democracy in the face of this disturbing trend.
Wealth Ominabo, the Communications Officer of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, conveyed the forum’s message in a statement. WAEF implored governments, regional, and sub-regional bodies to invest significantly in initiatives centered around citizens’ well-being. These initiatives are seen as vital buffers against threats to democracy.
Furthermore, WAEF called for the reinforcement of democratic frameworks in countries, emphasizing the importance of accountability and the guarantee of free and credible elections. The decline in democracy across the region, attributed to poor governance, has fueled frustration and a growing trust deficit between citizens and their governments.
WAEF advocates for a fundamental reevaluation of democracy on the continent, seeking to align it with the contemporary realities and needs of African citizens.
Adding her voice to the discussion, Fatoumata Tambajang, former Vice President of The Gambia, pointed out that the backslide in democracy in the region is largely a result of political leaders’ disregard for the core values of democracy and their failure to fulfill their political commitments.
Tambajang remarked, “It is time to rethink democracy within our context. First of all, what are the factors leading to democratic decline? The context in the Sahel is complex because we have civil leaders who are not ready to respect the constitutions and civil institutions. They are also not ready to deliver on their democratic promises.
In the face of these challenges, WAEF’s call for renewed commitment to democracy and the well-being of citizens resonates as a vital step towards stabilizing West and Central Africa.
