Theory question 109
Military RuleExplain five key strategies that West African States can adopt to keep the military at bay from interfering in political administration of states in the sub-region.
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Any five, explained: good governance and accountability; free, fair and credible elections; respecting term limits and the constitution; tackling corruption; addressing poverty and unemployment; professionalising the military and civilian control/education on its constitutional role; good welfare and equipment for the armed forces; strong regional sanctions and ECOWAS protocols against unconstitutional change; strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law; inclusive politics (ethnic, religious balance).
Note: ECOWAS sanctions after the 2020–2023 coups in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and Niger led those three Sahel states to leave ECOWAS in 2024–25 and form the Alliance of Sahel States.
Explain each strategy.