A stark warning has been issued by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD West Africa) on International Democracy Day, as the region’s democratic gains continue to unravel at an alarming rate.
The CDD’s dire assessment highlights a worrying trend of anti-democratic tendencies, military coups, and erosion of civil liberties, with Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger being cited as examples of growing disillusionment with governance systems.
“The region is sliding back to the dark days of military dictatorship,” said Dauda Garuba, PhD, Director of CDD West Africa. “It’s imperative that governments reaffirm constitutional order, uphold the rule of law, and ensure democratic transitions.”
The CDD is calling for collective action to address the pressing issues threatening democracy in West Africa, including poverty, inequality, corruption, and security challenges.
Key Recommendations:
- Strengthen institutions and processes for democratic development
- Ensure representation for all sectors of society
- Enhance electoral integrity
- Empower independent electoral bodies
- Bolster regional cooperation
- Protect press freedom
- Address information manipulation and disinformation
The CDD’s warning comes as press freedom in West Africa continues to decline, with several countries restricting media independence and suppressing critical voices.
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