Challenges to Democracy in Africa's Sahel Region

The Sahel region of Africa has been facing a growing problem of jihadist insurgencies and coups against elected governments in recent years. Countries like Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger have experienced coups, while Senegal, previously seen as a bastion of democracy in the region, is also facing rising instability. Macky Sall, the president of Senegal, expressed his concern about these coups and the lack of effective regional intervention. He also questioned the rush to hold elections after coups, pointing out the risks of elected presidents being overthrown or not completing their mandates. Additionally, Sall emphasized the threat of jihadism spreading across the Sahel region and the serious consequences it could have for Africa as a whole.