PAP Hosts High-Level Conference on Military Coups and Constitutionalism in Africa

The Pan-African Parliament (PAP), in partnership with AUDA-NEPAD, the Centre for Human Rights, and the Institute for International and Comparative Law in Africa (ICLA) of the University of Pretoria, convened a high-level conference on “The Impact of Military Coups and the Militarisation of Politics on Constitutionalism and Democracy in Africa.”

The gathering, held at the seat of the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, on Tuesday, brought together leading constitutional law scholars, political analysts, and governance experts to examine how the resurgence of military interventions threatens democratic consolidation on the continent.

Opening Reflections by the PAP President

In his opening address, the President of the Pan-African Parliament, H. E. Chief Fortune Charumbira noted that the relationship between civilian governments and the military in Africa has undergone profound transformations, shaped by historical, political, and institutional contexts. “These trends, driven by decades of weak governance, economic inequality, and institutional fragility require urgent and honest reflection,” he said.

He stressed that while Africa’s youth are driving innovation and demanding accountability, they remain the most affected by instability and political exclusion. “Young people are pushing for innovation, accountability, and a better future. Yet, as they rise to claim their rightful place in shaping their nations, the military continues to take over institutions, often under the pretext of instability or political failure,” he observed.

Calling for introspection and reform, he added:

“Let’s be honest about Africa’s distress. Most coups take place because the plight of young people is ignored. They lack strong institutions that can support them, protect their voices, and enable them to take real charge of their countries’ destinies.”

Exploring the Pressures Behind Instability

The first thematic session focused on Africa’s “pressure points”: demographic, political, and economic shifts that heighten both opportunity and risk. Experts discussed how the continent’s surging youth population, urbanization, and economic dependency intersect with declining trust in political institutions to create fertile ground for instability.

Participants underscored that governance failures and the erosion of accountability mechanisms undermine both constitutional democracy and social cohesion. Speaker Hon. Lindiwe Zulu, Former Minister of Social Development of South Africa, cautioned that neglecting youth inclusion would endanger Africa’s democratic future.

“Their involvement is crucial for Africa’s stability and sustainable development,” she stated, warning that disillusioned youth could otherwise become vulnerable to manipulation by anti-democratic forces.

A Call to Reinforce Democratic Resilience

Throughout the conference, delegates stressed the need to strengthen constitutional safeguards, invest in civic education, and reform civil-military relations to ensure that armed forces serve under, not above, democratic institutions. The discussions also explored innovative governance frameworks that promote accountability and inclusive participation as antidotes to coups and unconstitutional changes of government.

The conference continues through the week with sessions on transitional justice, peacebuilding, and the role of regional bodies in defending democratic order across Africa.