Coup, the forceful seizure of power from the ruling government by the military and other allied forces, is something which is well characterized in most African states. It’s extremely rare to read the history of African countries without being interrupted by the occurrence of coup, however there’s one particular country in Africa that has never experienced a coup or war.
The Senegal Armed Forces (SAF) has never attempted a coup. This feat is quite impressive given that Senegal is predominantly a Muslim country (as religion often play a major role in peace and stability). The Republic of Senegal, is a country in West Africa, bordered by Mauritania in the north, Mali to the east, Guinea to the southeast, and Guinea – Bissau to the southwest.
Senegal is one of few African countries to have never experienced a military coup. Under firm leadership of civilian governments, its army has contributed to restoring democracy in other member countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Liberia, Sierra Leone, Cote d’Ivoire and most recently Gambia.
Senegal was a frontrunner however. Democracy and pluralism had been established earlier in this country. After independence in 1960, Senegal was initially under one – party rule, but elections became competitive in 1976. Since May 1981, citizens have been free to start new parties without constraints. About 200 different parties are registered today. In 2000 and again in 2012, elections led to changes of government.
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