In an era where coups d'état are on the rise across Africa, Senegal stands as a remarkable exception. Since gaining independence in 1960, this West African nation has never experienced a coup. This exceptional track record can be attributed, in large part, to the maturity of its military.
Alioune Tine, a member of the Afrikajom think tank, notes, "There is a democratic culture, and there is also a strong commitment to defending this democratic culture. At the same time, we have a well-trained army. If you know the Senegalese army, I have worked with senior officers in Senegal, and frankly, it's an army of intellectuals. It's an army that, in my opinion, understands the boundaries and is aware of them."
Senegal has weathered crises in the past, such as the events of 1968 and the violent riots in 2021 and 2023, with its military consistently upholding democratic principles. However, to safeguard this tradition, analysts stress the importance of political vigilance, especially among those in power.
Momar Dieng emphasizes the need for cautious political management: "In Senegal, authorities need to be extremely cautious in managing political affairs in our country. Today, it is essential that democratic principles, the rule of law, political freedom, and press freedom are vigorously preserved because the mishandling of these elements can potentially inspire certain institutions like the army and gendarmerie. This has occurred in many African countries."
As neighboring countries grapple with coups, Senegal's people are hopeful that the specter of such events remains distant, despite current tensions in the country. Political figures, like former member of the Pastef party, Momath Talla Ndao, are acutely aware of the danger: "A coup d'état has never been a solution in a normal system. In almost all countries where you see these coups, it's because the system is not functioning properly. That's why I appeal to leaders and political actors to ensure that Senegal regains its former glory."
In an increasingly unstable region, Senegal's resilience shines as a beacon of stability. As the nation approaches a crucial presidential election on February 25th, preserving democratic values and responsible governance becomes paramount to uphold its exceptional legacy.