Cameroon: ANALYSIS: What is Driving the Coups in West Africa and What Does this Mean for Democracy?

By Hans Ngala

Before 2025 came to an end, the West Africa region was once again in the spotlight. On October 12, Cameroonians voted in an election which many had hoped would unseat 92-year-old Paul Biya. Election results were proclaimed on October 27, declaring Biya as winner and sparking violent protests, mainly in the economic hub of Douala and in the northern regions where Biya’s main opponent, Issa Tchiroma comes from. In the immediate aftermath, Biya made adjustments…