The National Conference in Benin, concluded 35 years ago, marked a pivotal shift from dictatorship to democracy, significantly influencing West Africa. Led by Mgr. Isidore de Souza, the conference established the principle of citizen sovereignty over the state. However, recent military upheavals in the region, coupled with ongoing political corruption, present serious challenges to the democratic ideals envisioned during that time.
Today marks 35 years since the National Conference concluded in Benin Republic, a foundational moment aimed at establishing democracy after years of authoritarian rule under General Mathieu Kerekou. His government, dominant since 1972 and ideologically Marxist-Leninist, faced a public clamoring for change amidst economic hardship, which led to a significant democratic transition starting in 1990.
The National Conference held from February 19 to 28, 1990, was led by Mgr. Isidore de Souza, highlighting the citizens’ desire for ownership of their country. It began as an attempt to appease a dissatisfied populace but evolved into a sovereign body that limited Kerekou’s powers. By doing so, it signified a shift toward democracy and citizen participation, marking a hopeful juncture in Benin’s history.
Inspired by France’s “Etats Generaux” during the 1789 Revolution, this conference influenced neighboring Francophone countries. As regimes in Niger, Togo, Cote d’Ivoire, and Mali collapsed, they too began to embrace democratic reforms and establish multiparty systems, demonstrating how powerful democratic movements can dismantle entrenched authoritarianism.
The conference’s primary goal was to weaken authoritarian structures and enhance civic engagement in governance. Although not all West African nations managed to embrace this democratization successfully, the Conference of Benin set a critical precedent. Today, the political landscape is fraught with challenges as military coups resurge, highlighting a crisis for ECOWAS and democracy across the region.
Recent military leaderships, which have emerged in countries like Chad, Mali, and Niger, present a formidable threat to democratic stability in West Africa. The rise of these regimes has rekindled fears of further coups, as regional discontent finds a voice against perceived neo-colonial influences, particularly from France, leading to violent reprisals against governments.
The fundamental question remains whether the third wave of democratization that began in West Africa in the early 1990s is receding. Historically, the challenge has been to ensure that democratization efforts also foster constitutional governance. While many West African constitutions are well-crafted, they often lack effective practical implementation, undermining democratic integrity.
West Africans have demonstrated resilience, previously striving for democracy against oppressive rule. Although the country has witnessed some positive changes since the 1990s, the impact on citizens’ daily lives remains limited due to corruption and electoral manipulation by political elites. This disparity raises questions about the efficacy of current democratic systems.
The region’s democracy struggles stem from a disconnect between leadership and the populace. While citizens display dedication to democratic principles, many leaders do not share this commitment, fuelling ongoing political tensions and societal unrest. This situation has been exacerbated by a youthful population that feels disenfranchised, often turning to extremist solutions.
Currently, in Benin, President Talon is accused of suppressing dissent and undermining democratic processes. As he seeks a third term amid increasing authoritarian tendencies, there is a palpable risk that younger generations may lose connection to the historic significance of the National Conference. Nonetheless, the struggle for a genuine democracy must persist despite these challenges.
The 35th anniversary of the National Conference in Benin serves as a reminder of the journey towards democracy in West Africa. While significant strides were made in the early 1990s towards establishing a democratic framework, contemporary challenges such as military coups and governmental corruption threaten these gains. Thus, the imperative remains for citizens to advocate for true democratic values and hold leadership accountable, ensuring that the aspirations for a just society are not forgotten.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
