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Photo Credits; Gayatri Malhotra

The Return of Military Coups: Why Are More African Nations Facing Political Upheaval?

In recent years, Africa has witnessed a resurgence of military coups, a troubling trend that echoes the political instability of the post-colonial era. Countries such as Mali, Sudan, Guinea, and Niger have experienced military takeovers, raising questions about the underlying causes of this political upheaval.

One of the central factors behind the rise in coups is dissatisfaction with governance. Corruption, mismanagement, and economic stagnation have led to widespread public frustration, eroding trust in civilian governments. When leaders fail to address the basic needs of the population—such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure—resentment builds. In these conditions, the military often presents itself as a force capable of restoring order, capitalizing on the vacuum left by ineffective leadership.

Security concerns also play a role in the resurgence of coups. The Sahel region, in particular, has been grappling with violent extremism from groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS. The failure of civilian governments to effectively counter these threats has provided military leaders with a justification for seizing power. They claim they can better secure the nation and combat terrorism, which resonates with populations suffering from instability.

The international dimension cannot be ignored either. Geopolitical competition between global powers has often turned African nations into battlegrounds for influence, further destabilizing already fragile political systems. In some cases, regional or foreign actors may even support military interventions for their strategic interests, undermining democratic processes.

Finally, a lack of institutional checks and balances contributes to the ease with which militaries can overthrow governments. Weak judicial systems, underfunded legislatures, and limited media freedom mean that civilian leaders often operate without meaningful accountability. When public dissent grows, militaries see an opportunity to step in and fill the power vacuum.

Addressing the root causes of coups requires more than just condemning military actions. It requires fostering transparent governance, strengthening institutions, and ensuring that the benefits of economic development are widely shared. Without these reforms, military interventions are likely to remain a recurring feature in African politics.

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