Four Years Later: The Lasting Impact of Mali’s 2020 Coup on West Africa

The military coup in Mali in August 2020 initiated a significant trend of political instability in West and Central Africa, leading to more than ten coup attempts in the following years. The popularity of military rule following the overthrow of several civilian governments suggests a shift in political dynamics in the region, exacerbated by worsening security conditions and growing disillusionment with foreign involvement, particularly from France. This situation has compelled nations to look toward Russia for support, raising concerns about human rights and further conflict.

Four years ago, the military coup in Mali marked a significant turning point for West and Central Africa, triggering a wave of political instability that has resulted in more than ten coup attempts across the region. The coup, which occurred on August 18, 2020, was preceded by widespread protests against then-President Aboubakar Keita, who faced allegations of pervasive corruption and failure to address rising insurgent violence, especially from groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS). Following the coup, Colonel Assimi Goita rose to prominence as the new leader and installed a transitional government with civilian President Bah Ndaw. However, internal power struggles quickly undermined this arrangement, leading to Goita’s declaration of himself as president after deposing Ndaw in May 2021. This event marked the beginning of a series of national upheavals, leading to military takeovers in Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Gabon among others. In each case, existing governments faced mounting dissatisfaction due to issues such as insecurity and unpopular foreign influence, particularly from France. The ripple effects of the Mali coup have weakened the norm of civilian rule in Africa and have been likened to a revival of the coup culture reminiscent of the late 20th century. Experts, including Dan Eizenga of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, emphasize that the Mali coup marked a critical juncture, significantly altering the political landscape in the region. In the aftermath, many national leaders have been removed, including Guinea’s Alpha Conde in September 2021 and Burkina Faso’s Roch Marc Christian Kabore in January 2022, which collectively indicates a validation of military governance by segments of the populace who have expressed dissatisfaction with civilian leadership. Despite high hopes from the military at the outset of these coups, the security situation in these countries has only intensified, with rising violence reported across the Sahel. Furthermore, the growing influence of Russian mercenaries, particularly in countries that have rejected Western military support, has raised concerns about human rights abuses and potential escalation of conflict. The regional economic bloc, ECOWAS, has faced criticisms for its reactive stances and lack of decisive action against the initial coup in Mali, which some scholars argue has emboldened subsequent military takeovers. The commitment to uphold democratic norms appears increasingly volatile as the region adapts to a new reality marked by military governance and external influences. As the political dynamics continue to evolve, the region remains at a crossroads concerning governance, stability, and foreign relations.

The military coup in Mali on August 18, 2020, is viewed as a catalyst for a series of political upheavals throughout West and Central Africa. Especially after eight years of relative stability in Mali where no military takeovers occurred, the coup signified a return to a pattern reminiscent of the political instability present in the aftermath of colonial liberation in Africa. In its wake, more than ten coup attempts surfaced within a short time span, indicating a significant shift in the political landscape of the region. The evolving situation in Mali and neighboring countries amplifies concerns over governance, security, and external intervention, particularly amid rising dissatisfaction with former colonial powers like France and increasing ties with Russia.

In conclusion, the coup in Mali has not only reshaped the political framework within the country but has also catalyzed a wave of military governance that has spread to surrounding nations, undermining the strength of civilian rule in West Africa. The other countries experiencing coups, like Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger, reflect a troubling trend of instability that raises critical questions about governance, security, and international relations in the region. As military rulers gain traction, the implications for regional stability and human rights remain dire and necessitate focused dialogue and reform efforts from both regional entities and global powers.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com