Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Global Governance Advocate, Comrade Timi Frank, has condemned the recent coup in Guinea-Bissau, describing it as a setback to democratic order and fresh evidence of worsening governance standards across the continent.
In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, Frank said military intervention in politics remains unacceptable, but insisted African leaders and regional organisations must equally take responsibility for the conditions that enable unconstitutional seizures of power.
“I unequivocally condemn the coup in Guinea-Bissau. Military rule is never the answer,” said Frank, who was recently appointed Senior Advisor by the Global Friendship City Association (GFCA), USA.
“However, the rise of coups is a direct consequence of the persistent breakdown of democracy in Africa - rigged elections, constitutional manipulation, suppression of opposition, and leaders who refuse to relinquish power.”
He argued that although the African Union (AU) and ECOWAS have been quick to denounce military takeovers, they often overlook violations perpetrated by civilian leaders who manipulate constitutions, compromise elections or suppress dissent.
“How do AU and ECOWAS condemn coups with moral authority when they look away as leaders rig elections, intimidate opponents and illegally extend term limits? Democracy must be protected at its roots — not only after it collapses,” he added.
Frank, who also serves as the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, identified recent political controversies in Tanzania, Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire as examples of weakened democratic institutions fuelling instability.
He, however, commended Ghana, Namibia and Botswana for sustaining credible electoral processes.
While maintaining that no coup is justifiable, he urged Guinea-Bissau’s military rulers to immediately initiate a transition plan that would return the country to civil administration within six months.
“The military authorities must prioritise national stability and conduct a free, fair and transparent election within 180 days,” he said.
“Only then can Guinea-Bissau rebuild trust, restore constitutional order and protect its sovereignty.”
Frank also urged the international community, especially the United States, to impose sanctions on African leaders who undermine democracy through rigging or unconstitutional tenure elongation.
He called on the AU to return to the vision of early African statesmen who championed unity, accountability and democratic governance.
“The AU was created to unite Africa — one passport, one currency, one future. But today that dream is stalled. Many leaders have become toothless, and the continent is paying the price,” he said.
“We often blame the West, yet there are no coups there because institutions work and elections are credible. When opposition loses, they accept results because the system is fair. In Africa, the reverse is true.”
Citing Cameroon’s recent election, Frank criticised President Paul Biya’s hold on power, saying the development epitomises the erosion of democratic norms on the continent.
“Political coups - the rigging of elections and manipulation of constitutions - are even more dangerous than military coups. Until African leaders change their conduct and respect the will of the people, instability will persist,” he warned.
He urged the AU to strengthen mechanisms that prevent democratic collapse rather than reacting only after military intervention has taken place, warning that the continent risks more turmoil unless electoral integrity is upheld.
“Without transparency, accountability and credible elections, more coups are inevitable.”
Frank reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles, saying Africa’s future depends on leaders who respect institutions, constitutional limits and the will of the electorate.
“We will continue to oppose illegality - whether military or civilian. A new Africa is possible, but it must be built on truth, term limits and respect for the people’s mandate.”
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