On the rise of military regimes in West Africa: between legitimacy fatigue and legality crisis

Abstract

This article investigates the alarming recurrence of violence by military personnel in West African states in terms of their political affairs. In order to determine the propagation of military coups in the region, as well as the incapacity of regional and continental entities to remedy this phenomenon, this article questions the relevance and conformity of democratic practices about the spirit and the essence of ‘democracy’ as a governing system aimed at fostering peace, justice, and social cohesion for the majority. It asserts that West African states face a crisis of democracy, legitimacy, and legality. Democratic proceedings and practices in most West African countries, i.e. the basis for power acquisition and its exercise, are inherently conflict-prone. They give little chance for a peaceful resolution in cases of political crisis. In short, they create the conditions for popular revolts, insurrections, and revolutions.