France’s Support for Overthrown Regimes: Assessing the Impact from Africa’s Perspective

Several African countries, including Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, have witnessed significant political upheaval through regime changes initiated by their citizens or the military. To truly grasp the complexity of this situation, one must consider the historical context of colonization and its enduring impact on Africa. As a former colonizer of these countries, France left deep scars on their way of life, languages, and cultures, devastating their societies. The legacy of colonization, coupled with ongoing economic exploitation and military presence, has fostered a growing sense of disillusionment among African nations toward their former colonial masters.

“Today, we are confronted—for more than eight years—by the most barbaric form, the most violent manifestation, of neocolonialism and imperialism. Slavery continues to be imposed upon us. Our ancestors have taught us one thing: the slave who is not able to take up his own revolt does not deserve our support for his destiny. Said President Ibrahim Traoré Burkina Faso,

Throughout history, Africa endured colonization by various European powers, including France, Britain, Spain, and the Ottoman Empire. The effects of colonization were catastrophic, destroying traditional ways of life, socio-economic systems, and cultural heritage. France, in particular, built its wealth on the exploitation of African resources and labour, leaving a lasting impact that continues to reverberate through the present day. Billions of dollars are still siphoned annually from African lands to benefit France through one-sided treaties and corporate agreements, leading to the detriment of African nations.

Despite gaining independence, Africa has struggled to extricate itself from the clutches of their former colonizers. France maintains significant military bases and organizations in the region, exerting influence over these countries’ political and economic affairs. This has led many African nations to question whether they should maintain ties with their colonizers. The desire for self-determination and freedom from foreign intervention has fueled growing sentiments of discontent.

While the people elect governments in these African nations, they have also witnessed bribery and corruption, often involving former French leaders and officials. This compromises the democratic process and fosters a lack of trust in both African leaders and France. Additionally, the involvement of foreign entities in manipulating the political landscape further weakens the foundations of democracy. Therefore, it is equally important to note that the people depose their leaders when they feel that the will of their citizens is being ignored.

It is very important to note that the ousting of regimes in African nations is often due to elected officials engaging in bribery, corruption, and constitutional subversion to extend their rule indefinitely. Such actions not only undermine democratic principles but also perpetuate a cycle of poverty, inequality, and lack of trust in governance. When elected officials prioritize personal gain over the welfare of their people and disregard the rule of law, it erodes public confidence in the political system. It hampers the development and growth of these nations. Addressing these issues is crucial to fostering accountable and transparent leadership, actively empowering citizens to participate in their countries’ governance, and paving the way for sustainable and inclusive development.

Furthermore, the role of external actors, particularly France, in supporting ousted leaders raises concerns about neocolonial influences and interference in African affairs. Recognizing the historical context of colonialism and its impact on the region’s political dynamics is essential. The support of foreign powers for leaders accused of corruption or constitutional manipulation can perpetuate a cycle of dependency and hinder African nations’ genuine progress and independence.

A striking observation in analyzing regime changes in Africa is how they are perceived compared to similar events in other parts of the world. Uprisings against oppressive regimes in non-African countries are often hailed as noble struggles for liberation, whereas similar actions in Africa are labelled as rebellions, insurgencies, or military coups. This double standard perpetuates negative stereotypes about African nations and undermines their efforts to assert their independence.

”It is disappointing, because in Europe, when the people take up arms to defend their homeland, they are referred to as patriots. Our grandfathers were deported to save Europe. It wasn’t with their consent, it was against their will. But on their return, we remember well that at Thiaroye, when they wanted to claim their basic rights, they were massacred.…

The problem is seeing African heads of state who bring nothing to peoples who are struggling, but who sing the same thing as the imperialists, calling us “militia,” and therefore referring to us as men who do not respect human rights. What human rights are we talking about? Said President Ibrahim Traoré

President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso has emerged as a crucial leader on the African political landscape, becoming the continent’s youngest President. His outspoken speeches at the African summit, specifically his fearless rebuke of France and imperialism, have garnered widespread attention and acclaim. Traoré’s commitment to challenging neocolonial influences and advocating for African sovereignty has resonated with citizens and leaders, earning him respect as a transformative and unyielding voice for the region’s self-determination and progress.

A crucial aspect to consider is Africa’s vast wealth of natural resources, which paradoxically contrasts with its status as the poorest continent. Foreign entities, including France, have historically exploited these resources for their benefit, leaving African nations with little control over their wealth. This exploitation pattern has engendered resentment and the desire to seek alternative partnerships with nations that offer a different approach to economic cooperation.

The recent regime changes in African nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali should not be oversimplified or dismissed as mere acts of instability. Instead, we must recognize the deeply ingrained historical, economic, and political factors that have shaped these events. The aftermath of colonization, ongoing economic exploitation, and the lingering influence of former colonial powers have fueled a growing desire for self-determination and autonomy within Africa. To foster lasting stability and progress, it is essential for both African countries and their former colonizers, like France, to engage in meaningful dialogue, acknowledging historical injustices and working towards a more equitable and cooperative future.