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South Africa has expressed its appreciation for a recent report detailing the state of peace and security across the African continent, as the African Union (AU) grapples with a concerning surge in unconstitutional changes of government (UCGs). The report, likely the Africa Governance Report 2023 produced by the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), comes as several African nations face suspension from the AU due to these political upheavals. This situation underscores a shift from a period of relative stability, where coups were infrequent, to a more volatile landscape marked by increased power grabs and challenges to democratic norms.

Between April 2019 and August 2023, Africa experienced ten unconstitutional seizures of power, alongside numerous failed coup attempts, according to a webinar hosted by the African Network of Constitutional Law Professionals (ANCIP) on July 10, 2025. This resurgence in UCGs represents a significant challenge to the AU and Regional Economic Communities (RECs), who previously relied on frameworks like the 1999 Lomé Declaration and the 2007 African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance to enforce relatively short transitions following coups.

The Changing Landscape of Coups in Africa

The recent trend demonstrates a departure from past patterns. Not only are coups becoming more frequent, but transitions following these events are also becoming more protracted. The principle of barring perpetrators of UCGs from contesting elections aimed at restoring constitutional order is increasingly disregarded. The most recent military takeover occurred in Guinea-Bissau in late November 2025, highlighting the continued instability in the region. A similar event took place in Madagascar on October 14, 2025, with soldiers seizing power in Antananarivo, as reported by Anadolu via Getty Images.

The African Union’s response to these events has been described as “mixed,” particularly when dealing with incumbents attempting to cling to power after losing elections or manipulating constitutions to extend their terms. Even as the AU has generally been strict in enforcing sanctions prescribed by the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Good Governance to restore constitutional order following coup d’états – applying these measures in 17 out of 20 cases analyzed in a 2023 study – its approach to other forms of unconstitutional regime change has been less consistent.

Challenges to the African Union’s Authority

Several factors contribute to this evolving situation. The credibility of international actors has been weakened by a perceived failure to address underlying governance issues, while inconsistent application of AU and REC norms has eroded deterrence. The ANCIP webinar, centered around a working paper by El-Ghassim Wane titled “The African Union and Coups: Why Implementation Matters More than Modern Norms,” suggests that focusing on effective implementation of existing frameworks may be more crucial than creating new ones. Participants included Amb. Said Djinnit, former AU Commissioner for Peace and Security (2003–2008), and Antonia Witt of PRIF.

The African Union’s prohibition of unconstitutional changes of government has been in effect since 2001, but its application has revealed variations across African precedents, as noted by Modern Ghana. The 2000 Lomé Declaration and the 2007 African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance define “unconstitutional change” to include explicit military coups or the removal of an elected government without a constitutional basis.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Governance and Stability

The increasing frequency of UCGs in Africa necessitates a reevaluation of the AU’s strategies and a renewed commitment to addressing the root causes of political instability. Strengthening governance, promoting democratic principles, and ensuring consistent application of existing norms are crucial steps towards restoring stability and preventing further unconstitutional changes of government. The ongoing debate surrounding potential revisions to existing frameworks highlights the urgency of finding effective solutions to this growing challenge.

What specific measures will the AU and RECs implement to enhance the enforcement of sanctions and deter future UCGs? The coming months will be critical in determining whether the African Union can effectively navigate this complex landscape and uphold its commitment to democratic governance across the continent. Share your thoughts in the comments below and support us continue the conversation.

Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid will have star forward Kylian Mbappé available for Saturday’s LaLiga match against Real Sociedad, despite recent concerns over a lingering knee issue. The availability of the French international, who has scored 38 goals across all competitions this season, provides a significant boost to manager Álvaro Arbeloa as Real Madrid aims to maintain its position near the top of the league table.

The match at the Santiago Bernabéu presents a compelling clash between two of LaLiga’s hottest teams. Real Sociedad, under the leadership of American manager Pellegrino Matarazzo, is currently on an 11-game unbeaten streak, a remarkable turnaround since Matarazzo took the helm during the winter break. Real Madrid, meanwhile, has won its last seven LaLiga games, demonstrating a strong run of form. The game could see Real Madrid move to the top of La Liga, ahead of Barcelona who do not play until Monday.

Arbeloa confirmed Mbappé’s fitness in a press conference on Friday, stating, “Yes, Kylian is fine. He’s trained with the group and he’s available for tomorrow’s game.” ESPN reports that Mbappé had been working in the gym earlier in the week due to discomfort in his left knee, an issue that has troubled him since December. However, he rejoined his teammates for outdoor training on Friday.

Real Sociedad’s Resurgence Under Matarazzo

Pellegrino Matarazzo’s arrival at Real Sociedad has sparked a dramatic improvement in the team’s performance. Taking over a side that was closer to the relegation zone than European qualification, Matarazzo has guided them to an impressive unbeaten run of nine matches, securing four wins and three draws. CBS Sports highlights this turnaround as a testament to Matarazzo’s impact. The American manager had been out of work for over a year after leaving Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga before joining Real Sociedad.

This impressive form presents a significant challenge for Real Madrid. Real Sociedad’s ability to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities will be key to disrupting Real Madrid’s winning streak. The match represents a test of both teams’ consistency and tactical flexibility.

Injury Concerns for Real Madrid

While Mbappé’s availability is a positive development for Real Madrid, Arbeloa will be without several key players. Jude Bellingham remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, with initial estimates suggesting a return early next month, though some reports indicate he may be out until April. Sports Illustrated details these injury concerns. Brazil winger Rodrygo is also unavailable, requiring Arbeloa to adjust his attacking lineup, with Gonzalo García, Franco Mastantuono, and Brahim Díaz all potential replacements. Defender Éder Militão continues his recovery from an injury.

Despite these absences, Arbeloa also confirmed that center back Raúl Asencio is available after recovering from illness. The team’s relative lack of significant injuries, with only three players unavailable, is a positive sign for Real Madrid, especially considering their struggles with fitness issues over the past year.

Looking Ahead

Saturday’s match between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad promises to be a captivating encounter, with both teams eager to continue their impressive form. Mbappé’s presence will undoubtedly add an extra dimension to Real Madrid’s attack, but Real Sociedad’s recent resurgence under Matarazzo suggests they will be a formidable opponent. The outcome of the match could have significant implications for the LaLiga title race, with Real Madrid looking to capitalize on Barcelona’s game on Monday.

What impact will Pellegrino Matarazzo have on this match? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow soccer fans.