Burundi and Mali regimes use a common tactic to stay in power: blame an external enemy
Authoritarian regimes in Burundi, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are increasingly using the tactic of blaming external enemies to maintain power and deflect from domestic instability. This trend reflects a growing solidarity among military-led governments that reject democratic norms.
Why it matters
The consolidation of power by military juntas in the Sahel and Burundi threatens regional stability and democratic governance across the African continent.
Protests in support of the military in Bamako, Mali, in August 2021. VOA (Moctar Barry) via Wikimedia Commons Burundi and Mali regimes use a common tactic to stay in power: blame an external enemy Published: July 15, 2026 9:30am EDT https://theconversation.com/burundi-and-mali-regimes-use-a-common-tactic-to-stay-in-power-blame-an-external-enemy-286184 https://theconversation.com/burundi-and-mali-regimes-use-a-common-tactic-to-stay-in-power-blame-an-external-enemy-286184 Link copied Share article Share article
The analysis relies on academic research regarding political science and international relations, maintaining an objective tone.
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