Niger has witnessed its first democratic power transfer since independence in 1960. President Mohamed Bazoum was sworn in Friday.
West Africa articles on Democracy Chronicles
West Africa is a core region of democratic progress in the world and also a region where many of the challenges to better and more widespread world democracy are evident. West Africa here will include fifteen countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. Nigerian content on Democracy Chronicles is so extensive, it won't be automatically included here, just click the link above. Also check out our section on World Democracy.
Elections and Democratic Backsliding in Benin
Freedom House no longer gives Benin high marks as “free” country and this is attributed to the actions of the current president.
The Tools Used by Ruling Parties to Restrain West African Democracy
As is the case in many other African states, ruling parties in West Africa are mounting various barriers for opponents running for office.
Senegal Youth Using Digital Tools To Safeguard Democracy
The internet shutdown in Senegal aims to quell anti-regime protests but Senegalese youth are using digital tools to fight back.
Senegal’s Democracy Faces a Crisis of Public Trust
Despite a track record of democratic progress, recent news from Senegal is troubling, requiring a re-examination of the country’s complexities.
Democracy Erodes in Central And West Africa
A democratic recession has gained steam across West and Central Africa and is showing new signs ahead of elections in these regions.
Niger’s Fragile Democracy at Risk After Election
The ruling party’s candidate won the February 2021 elections but post-electoral tensions put a strain on Niger’s fragile democracy.
Conde Seeks Controversial Third Term in Guinea Elections
To address the political crisis after Lansana Conté, Guine adopted presidential term limits. Yet President Condé sought a third term in Sunday’s polls.
Coup in Mali: disgruntled Malian army carries out popular instruction to remove President
A disgruntled Malian army has carried out popular instruction for it to oust President Boubackar Keita. The transition is a unique opportunity for progress.
Mali Opposition Plans More Protests to Demand President’s Ouster
There have been protests in recent weeks asking for President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta to step down. More protests have been planned by the opposition.