Pages: (104-111 )
Abstract
This study examines the correlation between the resurgence of coup d’états that have rapidly swept through parts of West Africa, giving bent to external power plays, and the interplay of maladministration and development challenges that have ravaged the sub-region. Previously in the sub-region, coups were staged to protect, propagate, and strengthen Western interests; and Western-friendly regimes have flourished despite apparent internal discontents. However, recent coups had marked a difference: it attempted to stifle the strangulating hold of the West, providing a pathway for the Russians to establish real presence in a manner that alarms and threatens Western interests. This development creates severe implications for a sub-region that is utterly unprepared to fashion out a balancing act. The study uses the content analysis method since all the sources used – especially secondary sources – are in the public domain. The study finds that there is a connection between maladministration and recent coups, supported largely by the re-entrance of Russia as a power that confronts Western hegemonic dominance of the globe and has emboldened disenchanted politicians and military officers to attempt the dislodgement of elected governments deemed puppets of the West. More so, real and significant steps to build and develop their economies are currently being entertained by the military juntas in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, where the imperialistic hands of the French government have been removed in the economy and security landscapes. However, the study concludes by sounding a note of warning that if these coup leaders refuse to tackle structures that perpetuate maladministration and underdevelopment, they are likely to be booted out by another set of military officers, thereby creating endless platforms for external power plays.
Keywords: Maladministration, Coup d’état, African Leaders, Western Hegemony, Russia,