Dr Lassane Quederago, a political analyst and researcher from Burkina Faso, has called on regional and continental bodies to take proactive steps against poor governance in Africa, warning that inaction can pave the way for political instability, including military coups.

Speaking on the AM Show, Dr Quederago stressed the need for early intervention by institutions like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), rather than waiting for situations to escalate.

“And that is why I really hope that the international community, notably ECOWAS and the African Union, would finally wake up from the long, long, long sleep and address some of these issues that are stagnating our governance. When there is poor governance, it leads eventually to these kinds of situations,” he said.

He added that leaders must act according to constitutional provisions, emphasising that timely intervention can prevent crises before military forces are involved.

“When those who are holding our public offices, those who are leading our countries, are not acting according to our constitutions, that is the moment to intervene. You don’t have to wait till the khaki guys come in before you intervene,” he explained.

Dr Quederago’s comments come in the wake of a reported coup in Guinea-Bissau, highlighting a worrying trend of political instability in several African nations.

Analysts say coups in the region often stem from systemic governance failures, weak institutions, and a lack of accountability among leaders.