Sierra Leone Journalist Abdul Bero Kamara reports thus – A case for more coups? The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has been a key player in promoting peace and democracy in the region, but its response to recent political crises has sparked debate and criticism. Undoubtedly, a series of military coups took place in Guinea, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger over four years. Despite international condemnation of these coups, ECOWAS initially took a strong stance by imposing sanctions and threatening military intervention if democratic governments were not reinstated. (Photo: ECOWAS Chairman Ahmed Bola Tinubu).

The article discusses the controversial decision made by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) today 24/02/24 to remove economic sanctions imposed on countries in the region following military coups. The Sledgehammer is of the view that this decision sets a dangerous precedent and may encourage more military coups across the region. The Chairman of ECOWAS, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, justified this decision by citing humanitarian considerations, such as the Lenten period and the approaching month of Ramadan.

However, the author criticizes this move as a betrayal of democracy and a setback for the region, arguing that it sends the wrong message and may embolden other military takeovers. The perceived inconsistency in ECOWAS’s response to coups in different member states has raised questions about the organisation’s commitment to upholding democratic norms and principles. It is the view of the sledgehammer that ECOWAS is guilty of applying double standards and prioritizing political expediency over democratic values in its dealings with member states in crisis.

The concern that ECOWAS’s actions could lead to a “tendency for more coups” underscores the urgent need for the organization to reassess its approach to political crises in the region. For instance, Strengthening mechanisms for preventing and responding to coups, upholding democratic norms, and holding member states accountable for their actions are essential steps to avoid further destabilization and preserve the hard-won gains in peace and democracy in West Africa. Furthermore, ECOWAS’s approach risks undermining the principles of constitutional democracy and the rule of law in the region.

By legitimising coups through negotiation and compromise, ECOWAS may inadvertently encourage further military takeovers and weaken the prospects for peaceful political transitions. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the negative implications of ECOWAS’s decision, warning that it could lead to a dangerous trend of military coups in West Africa. The Sledgehammer is of the view that the decision of ECOWAS Chairman President Tinubu is perceived as a weak response to the threat to democracy in the region and further expresses concern about the potential consequences of ECOWAS’s actions on the stability of the region.

Courtesy: By Abdul Bero Kamara, Owl newspaper