-Analysing The Impact Of a Double Assault On Democratic Principles
By Davis Buyondo
Kampala, Uganda
Gabon, the Central African nation, on Wednesday found itself plunged into turmoil as a swift and decisive military coup unfolded.
In a dramatic turn of events, rebel soldiers seized control of the country on August 30 2023, placing President Ali Bongo under house arrest just hours after he had been declared the victor with 64.27% of the votes cast votes.
With General Brice Oligui Nguema now at the helm as the newly appointed leader, Gabon stands at a critical crossroads, its political landscape transformed by the unexpected grip of military power.
However, civil society groups under Tournons La Page (TLP), an International Citizens’ movement, have taken a resolute stand in advocating for the restoration of democratic governance in Gabon, a politically troubled nation.
They are calling for swift action to reinstate constitutional order and safeguard the future of a nation in turmoil. They firmly condemned the dual assault on democratic principles, which encompassed an electoral controversy and a military coup.
The movement gave reference to the 2000 Bamako Declaration on Democracy, Rights, and Freedoms, which emphasises the importance of a reasonable period separating any substantial modification of the electoral system from its entry into force.
Spark Of The Military Coup
Trouble started six months before the 2023 General Elections when the Gambogian government hastily amended both the Constitution and electoral legislation in a manner that contradicted this fundamental democratic principle.
It further points out a scenario where the government further exacerbated the situation by cutting off the internet, closing national borders, and banning journalists and international observers from monitoring the process.
The situation escalated dramatically when various police, gendarmerie, and army units joined forces to establish the Transition and Institutional Restoration Committee.
This military coup d’état was a direct response to the electoral delays and further deteriorated the country’s political stability and development prospects, according to TLP officials.
Against this background, Marc Ona Essangui, the President of Tournons La Page, said the situation in Gabon is similar to what has happened in other African countries like Guinea, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
“The celebrations after these military takeovers signal a troubling trend in Africa where democracy is getting weaker. This is leading to young people becoming more radical, causing political instability, and making security issues worse,” he clarified.
Essangui appealed to the African Union and the international community to take decisive political measures to protect democracy. This includes enforcing adherence to international treaties ratified by member states.
While TLP acknowledges the cancellation of the fraudulent 26 August election results, it advocates for the swift establishment of an inclusive civil transition to restore constitutional order in Gabon.
According to Mathieu Pourchier, the TLP Executive Secretary, despite some expressions of concern from countries such as China, Russia, and France, as well as the suspension of Gabon from the African Union, no concrete measures have been taken by the international community thus far.
However, Pourchier explained that TLP remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting democracy and calls for the return of democratic governance in Gabon.
“We stress how vital it is to have a fair transition led by the people to reform institutions and bring democracy back to the struggling nation,” he added.
TLP Uganda
The events in Gabon, along with similar situations in other African countries, should serve as a potent reminder and source of lessons for both citizens and leaders across the continent.
Yisito Kayinga Muddu, the National Coordinator – TLP Uganda, said that African citizens and leaders must respect the principles of democracy, including free and fair elections, transparent electoral processes, and adherence to constitutional order because undermining democratic processes can lead to instability and unrest.
According to Kayinga, in any democratic society, the leaders ought to be held accountable for their actions and decisions. The international community, regional organisations, and civil society must play a crucial role in monitoring and condemning actions that undermine democracy, such as unconstitutional changes of power.
Based on the lessons from the Gabon incident, Kayinga explained that civil society organisations and independent media outlets should continue their crucial roles in holding leaders accountable and ensuring transparency.
In addition, issues regarding peaceful dialogue and conflict resolution mechanisms should always be prioritised over resorting to violence or military coups. He added that African countries should also strengthen their conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms and encourage negotiations to resolve political disputes.
Regarding the African Union (AU) and regional organisations, like ECOWAS and SADC, Kayinga said they need to be proactive in addressing democratic backsliding and upholding democratic norms and values on the continent. They should take swift and decisive actions to address crises when they occur.
Gabon Situation As Caution
Although each nation’s political context is unique, it’s important to note there is a potential for a “wave” of democratic movements in other African countries where citizens are dissatisfied.
African citizens have shown a growing desire for democratic governance, as seen in movements for change in various countries. However, the path to democracy is complex and can vary widely from one nation to another.
Additionally, it often requires a combination of domestic pressure, regional and international support, and a commitment to peaceful and democratic processes.
Ultimately, the success of democratic movements in other African countries will depend on the collective will of their citizens and the extent to which leaders are responsive to their demands for democratic governance and respect for human rights.
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