"West African Elders Forum Calls for Citizen-Centric Approach to Strengthen Democracy in the Region"

 Advancing Democracy in West Africa: Insights from the West African Elders Forum

Introduction:

The West African Elders Forum (WAEF) recently convened a 'State of Democracy' webinar, which gathered prominent voices from the region to discuss the challenges facing democratic governance in West Africa and to propose strategies to strengthen democracy. The event, organized by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), yielded insightful recommendations that emphasize the importance of putting citizens' welfare, peace, and security at the center of governance to consolidate democracy in the region.

Challenges to Democratic Governance:

The participants at the webinar addressed several critical challenges to democratic governance in West Africa. One pressing concern is the increasing trend of coups and unconstitutional changes of government, which threaten the stability and legitimacy of democratically elected governments. These disruptions have the potential to undermine the democratic progress made in the region.

Investing in Citizen-Centric Initiatives:

A central theme of the discussions was the need for governments, regional bodies, and sub-regional organizations to invest more in citizen-centric initiatives. These initiatives would not only strengthen democracy but also act as a buffer against threats to democratic processes. This emphasis on citizen engagement reflects the understanding that trust between citizens and governments is essential for a healthy democratic system.

Strengthening Democratic Frameworks:

The panelists stressed the importance of reinforcing democratic frameworks within individual countries. This involves measures to ensure accountability, transparency, and the conduct of free and credible elections. Such measures are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the democratic process and preventing electoral fraud and misconduct.

Rethinking Democracy in the African Context:

The call for a reevaluation of democracy within the African context is particularly noteworthy. Participants argued that African nations must adapt democratic principles to address contemporary realities and citizens' evolving expectations. This includes delivering on political promises, providing essential services such as food security, and promoting equal opportunities and gender equality.

ECOWAS and Its Role:

The role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was a prominent topic of discussion. While ECOWAS has made efforts to safeguard democracy in the sub-region, there was a perception that it primarily protected incumbent presidents rather than serving citizens' interests. Suggestions were made to shift the focus from the interests of leaders to those of the people, aligning ECOWAS more closely with the citizens it aims to represent.

Collective Efforts to Protect Democracy:

The collective effort needed to protect and promote democracy in West Africa was a resounding message. Participants highlighted that various stakeholders, including civil society, member states, regional bodies like ECOWAS, the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN), must collaborate to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure peaceful and inclusive electoral systems.

The 'State of Democracy' webinar organized by WAEF and the GJF provided a platform for candid discussions on the challenges and opportunities for democratic governance in West Africa. The recommendations and insights shared during the event underscore the urgent need to prioritize citizens' welfare, peace, and security, while also reimagining democracy in a way that addresses the region's unique context and contemporary realities. By working collectively and adopting these principles, West Africa can make significant strides towards consolidating democracy and ensuring a brighter future for its citizens.