Sulemana Braimah, Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MfWA), has emphasized the critical need for strengthening institutions to safeguard democracy across Africa. He pinpointed the diverse threats facing democracy in West Africa, including political instability, electoral malpractices, and diminishing civic participation.
During the West Africa Regional Democracy Strategy Dialogue, a two-day event, Braimah highlighted how these threats are exacerbated by external pressures, economic challenges, and security concerns. He stated, “Democracy’s decay touches all institutions, from the police and military to the media and judiciary.”
In response, Braimah called for a unified effort to bolster democratic institutions and ensure transparent electoral processes. The event, organized by the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) in collaboration with MfWA, the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP), and West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS), focused on strengthening democracy and enhancing state-citizen relations in West Africa.
This significant gathering brought together 10 influential regional civil society organizations (CSOs) with strong connections to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), along with 10 activists and CSO leaders from transitioning countries such as Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger. Their collective aim was to renew their commitment to democratic values and create a resilient democratic future for the region.
According to a report by the Daily Graphic, Nana Asantewa Afadzinu, WACSI’s Director-General, underscored the dialogue’s purpose: to forge a collective movement that overcomes existing divisions and tackles the inherent vulnerabilities in regional democratic systems. She stressed the crucial role of civil society in upholding democratic values, driving regional development, and navigating the complex modern landscape.
Afadzinu expressed concerns about the region’s democratic regression, contrasting it with past strides towards constitutionalism, elected governments, and institutional strengthening. She pointed out the current deterioration, attributing it to certain leaders who cling to power, manipulate political landscapes, and trigger citizen protests and rights violations.
She added, “This crucial gathering of 10 prominent regional CSOs and 10 leading activists from transitional countries aims to develop a robust strategy to amplify civil society voices and enhance collaboration with ECOWAS and state governments.”
Paul Osei Kufuor, acting project director of WADEMOS, emphasized the need for good governance in West Africa. He noted the significant role of CSO engagement in restoring constitutional order, especially in nations like Niger.
This dialogue marks a pivotal moment in addressing the challenges facing democracy in West Africa. It underscores the importance of enhancing transparency, reinforcing institutions, and encouraging civic participation. By uniting key civil society organizations and leaders, the dialogue aims to forge a stronger, more democratic future for the region.
