The current series of military coups in Africa is a cause for concern, as it suggests the possibility of a reversal in democratic governance, potentially leading to a return of past military regimes on the continent. The observation of regular citizens from Mali and Guinea participating in public demonstrations twice within a single year to commemorate military coups, and now Niger and Gabon, raises important questions on the trajectory of democratization in Africa. Is there a growing acceptance of military authority among Africans? To what extent have military coups undermined democratic commitments in the region? Is there a prospective trajectory for the establishment and sustenance of democratic governance throughout the African continent?
These kinds of queries are considered valid and relevant. Nevertheless, the data obtained from Afrobarometer surveys conducted across 20 African nations over the years 2021 and 2022 provides grounds for maintaining a prudent sense of hope. Africans persist in their desire to reside under political systems that embody democratic principles, exhibit transparency and responsibility, and are receptive to the needs and aspirations of the populace.
In the surveyed sample of 20 countries, a significant majority of individuals exhibit a clear inclination towards democracy as their preferred form of governance, surpassing all other choices. Specifically, 67% of respondents indicate a preference for democracy "over any other kind of government," whereas non-democratic options such as one-party control are rejected by 79% of participants, and one-man rule is rejected by 81%. A significant majority of individuals also express support for fundamental democratic principles, including legislative control of the president (65%), freedom of the media (67%), and the imposition of term limits on the presidency (73%). Furthermore, there continues to be a significant desire for governance that is held responsible for its actions. In fact, a majority of 62% of individuals think that accountability is of greater significance than effectiveness. However, it should be noted that a mere 37% of individuals residing in Africa express contentment with the functionality of democracy inside their respective nations. Furthermore, an even smaller proportion of individuals (30%) believe that their government is effectively addressing the issue of corruption, which a majority of respondents (62%) perceive as being on the rise.
The failure of governments to fulfill the democratic expectations of their constituents may be contributing to a growing inclination towards military governance. The data indicates that there has been a decrease of 8 percentage points in the proportion of citizens who oppose military control, with the current figure standing at 67%. Moreover, it is noteworthy that less than half (42%) of those residing in Africa express agreement with the notion that military intervention in politics should never occur. However, the percentage of those who are willing to accept this course of action in cases where elected leaders misuse their power increases to 54%, and further rises to 58% among individuals aged 18 to 25. This occurrence serves as a crucial reminder for governments and other relevant entities to promptly address the democratic aspirations of their population.
By: Enock Katere
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