Hello!
Today, we're delving into the thrilling world of failed coups in African history. While coups have been a frequent occurrence in the post-colonial period of many African nations, not all have been successful. Join us as we take a closer look at some of the most notable failed coups in African history, filled with daring plots, high-profile individuals, and dramatic outcomes.
The Wonga Coup
In March 2004, a group of mercenaries tried to overthrow Equatorial Guinea's dictator, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, in what was called the Wonga Coup.
Led by former British soldier Simon Mann, the group was captured before they could launch their attack. Interestingly, several high-profile individuals, including Sir Mark Thatcher, son of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, were implicated in the plot. It was said that Thatcher had provided funding for the coup attempt, but he denied any involvement.
1981 attempted Gambian coup
In July 1981, a group of soldiers led by Kukoi Samba Sanyang attempted to overthrow Gambia's President, Dawda Jawara.
The coup was unsuccessful, and Sanyang fled to neighbouring Senegal, where he continued to plan further attempts to seize power in The Gambia. He was eventually arrested in 1986 and spent the rest of his life in prison.
The Burundi 1965 coup
In 1965, a group of ethnic Hutu officers in Burundi attempted to overthrow the government in a coup.
Their frustration with the monarch's(Mwami Mwambutsa IV) attempts to control the government and disregard for parliamentary norms sparked the coup.
Despite wounding the prime minister, the coup failed as Captain Michel Micombero's troops intervened. The aftermath resulted in a violent backlash against Hutus, leading to the deaths of thousands of people, including the coup participants.
The coup also fueled Tutsi militancy, leading to two more coups and the eventual abolition of the monarchy. Michel Micombero became the President of Burundi in the newly declared republic.
Riddle Time
2002 Mauritanian Coup Attempt
In June 2003, a group of military officers attempted to overthrow Mauritania's President, Maaouya Ould Sid'Ahmed Taya, in what was known as the 2002 Mauritanian Coup Attempt.
The coup was unsuccessful, and the plotters were arrested and imprisoned. However, in 2005, a successful coup led by Ely Ould Mohamed Vall overthrew Taya and established a military junta.
Riek Machar's Thwarted Coup
In December 2013, South Sudanese Vice President Riek Machar attempted to overthrow President Salva Kiir in what was known as the 2013 South Sudanese Coup Attempt.
The coup was unsuccessful and led to a brutal civil war that lasted for several years, resulting in thousands of deaths and displacements.
These failed coup attempts demonstrate the fragile nature of political power in many African nations, where military leaders frequently plot coups to seize control. From high-profile individuals implicated in Equatorial Guinea's failed coup to the brutal civil war that followed South Sudan's attempt, African history is filled with daring plots, dramatic outcomes, and political turmoil.
Are you interested in learning more about the political personalities and leaders of Africa and by extension the history of their respective countries?
We are thinking of doing a deep dive into these topics and would love to know if it's something that might interest you. Let me know by replying to this email.
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Remember, It is time to tell our stories.
Till next time.
Mike.
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