Following Général Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s recent address at the UN General Assembly, the issue of military involvement in African politics takes centre stage.
His speech, aimed at justifying the military's assumption of power in Gabon due to electoral turmoil, raises critical questions regarding the military's role in African governance.
A closer look at the speech reveals that the recent military intervention in Gabon resulted from a complex set of circumstances. Initially, the electoral process was marked by turmoil, casting doubts on its legitimacy.
Furthermore, the international community condemned this intervention as a breach of democratic principles, reflecting the military's belief that their actions were necessary to prevent further deviations from democratic norms.
This decision was rooted in a historical context of problematic elections, notably the tumultuous 2016 presidential election marred by fraud and violence. Despite a political dialogue attempt in 2017, the government's lack of commitment to authentic democratic reforms, coupled with questionable electoral adjustments and unequal representation, fuelled discontent.
The dismissal of legal challenges by a Constitutional Court perceived to be biased added to concerns. On a global scale, diplomatic missions and observers were alerted to the deteriorating political climate.
Ultimately, the military intervention gained popular support, with celebrations indicating the public's preference for it over a contested election. The intervention now aims to pave the way for a transition and inclusive reforms to rebuild trust and ensure fair future elections.
Throughout the history of African nations, the military has often been called upon to protect unjust regimes rather than democratic principles or the constitution. Instead of scrutinising electoral processes, the military has frequently been complicit in preserving governments that undermine democracy, stifle dissent and violate human rights.
This raises essential questions: What historical role has the military played in upholding democratic values, and has it contributed to undermining them?
It's crucial to ponder why the military consistently intervenes to seize power during political crises. What grants legitimacy to the military to make such decisions? Is it merely their possession of weaponry designed for national defence?
We must ask: what distinguishes the military from other groups, such as armed militias, NGOs, trade unions, or even college students, who may also seek changes in government? Why should the military be the arbiter of a nation's fate?
Military personnel often lack the expertise required for effective governance, with their training primarily focused on defence and security, rather than the management of intricate political and economic systems.
Furthermore, it's vital to scrutinise the motivations driving military takeovers. Are these interventions genuinely aimed at enhancing citizens' lives and reinstating democracy, or are they opportunistic power grabs? Historical patterns often suggest the latter, with military leaders prioritising their interests over those of the people.
The international community must not merely accept military takeovers as necessary evils; they should also prioritise the strengthening of democratic institutions, the promotion of free and fair elections, and the enforcement of accountability for electoral irregularities.
International organisations, regional bodies, and diplomatic efforts should mediate political disputes and facilitate peaceful transitions of power.
Général Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s speech at the General Assembly underscores the pressing issue of military involvement in African politics. These interventions should not be romanticised as heroic acts to restore democracy but scrutinised with scepticism, recognising them as opportunities for military figures to seize power, often at the expense of their citizens' well-being.
The situation in Gabon should serve as a stark warning to all ‘stable’ African governments and societies across the continent. It vividly illustrates the need for vigilance when it comes to military leaders and their potential ambitions to seize power.
While some governments may feel secure with their military establishments and assume they are loyal, history has shown that the political landscape can change rapidly, creating opportunities for military intervention.
Gabon's case is a poignant reminder that military leaders can become entwined with political elites, biding their time for moments of vulnerability to exploit, be it through electoral processes, security crises as seen in the Sahel region, economic instability, or any other emerging situation.
This underscores the importance of ensuring that the military remains subservient to civilian rule, adhering strictly to democratic principles, and prioritising the welfare and interests of the citizens.
The international community should take heed and continue to advocate for democratic governance, upholding the rule of law, and holding political elites accountable for their actions. It is essential to prevent any future power grabs by the military, as witnessed in Gabon, and to foster an environment where political disputes are resolved peacefully, without resorting to force.
To promote genuine democracy and citizens' welfare in Africa, priority should be given to civilian-led solutions, and the military should serve as a subordinate force to civilian rule and democratic principles, rather than a dominant player in governance.