Coup is defined as a sudden illegal often violent change of government. Yes it has been stated and observed that the worst democratic government is better than the best military rule in the world. No wonder on Friday, 15th July, 2016, there was aborted coup in Turkey. The resistance led to killing of about 300 people including soldiers and civilians. Due to the aborted coup over 6,000 people were arrested to calm down the tension in Ankara the Turkish capital and the country in general. And 90days state of emergency was also declared to curtail the impact of the aborted coup. The Turkey Prime Minister and President had accused some religious leaders as masterminds of the failed coup.
It is worthy to note that Turkey is just gaining ground in European Union Membership. And one wonders what would have been the fate of Turkey in the affairs of comity of nations, if the coup was successful. Sanctions upon sanctions would have been placed on Turkey to cripple its economy and bilateral relations. The seizure of government power through barrel of gun is highly condemnable and unacceptable in this age.
The news of the aborted coup in Turkey was openly condemned by world leaders; and greeted with mixed feelings all over the world. Relative freedom of information observed in Turkey is under threat. The military junta was known to give excuses when taken over power from civilians. But in the end would do worse than the civilians. Many nations ruled by the military had a bitter taste of governance, especially in Africa. Decree and not constitution would be involved and enforced in Turkey for the running of government.
It is high time the military avoid interfering or truncating democracy which is the best form of government. The military should adhere to the constitutional duty of protecting the territorial integrity of the nation. It is on. this back ground that democracy and its principles should be made to strive in the country.
The Turkey’s experience is a clarion call to democratic leaders to sit up. Indeed, military authorities in the world should detest political leadership. And avoid whatever that lures them to forcefully take over democratically elected government in the world. Civil authorities as a matter of fact should promote policies that enhance egalitarianism. For instance, the first coup that took place in Nigeria was wildly celebrated. And the military was seen to be redeemers.
But after many years of military engagement in governance of the country, it was discovered to be a misnomer. Military government is autocratic and despotic in all ramifications. Democracy cannot be compared to it no matter the enticement. The military intervention in political power is against good governance. No wonder the people of Turkey resisted and withstood against the coup planners. The federal government of Nigeria through the President has also condemned the aborted coup in Turkey. Many countries would have cut their diplomatic ties with Turkey if the coup was successful.
Coup has severe effect on democracy. Therefore, planners of coup should desist from embarking on forceful takeover of government which is dangerous to democracy and the citizens. Political leaders and politicians should not abuse political powers by looting public treasury; which in turn gives room for military intervention in politics.
Constitutionally, the military are not meant to take over leadership of the country even in the face of emergency. The failed coup in Turkey is a wake-up call for political leaders in the world to sit up. Also the failed coup in Turkey on Friday 15th July, 2016 is a threat to democracy in the world; therefore, everybody should condemn it. ###
Frank Eneawaji Ogwuonuonu
08028901682
