Emmanuel Macron, the French president, demonstrated an impressive ability to retain power despite a tumultuous tenure.

His reign has been marked by relentless Yellow Vests marches, widespread protests against his Pension reform, and shocking race riots following a police killing of a teenager during a traffic stop.

His foreign policy record is equally fraught with challenges. From his unsuccessful mediation efforts in the Ukraine conflict to being snubbed at the BRICS meeting, Macron’s international standing has taken a hit.

However, the most significant blow has been the decline of French influence in West Africa, particularly in the Sahel region.

In a worrying trend, many former colonies are distancing themselves from Paris’ sphere of influence, raising fears of potential conflicts in the region.

The ECOWAS countries, led by France’s ally Nigeria, have pledged to intervene to ‘restore democracy’ in Niger. Meanwhile, Gabon, another country seemingly on the brink of severing ties with France, has experienced a coup d’état.

Despite these challenges, Macron remains defiant. He has refused to recall France’s ambassador to Niger, who was asked to leave by the ruling junta.

Macron insists France is not Niger’s enemy and has dismissed concerns about potential dangers of standing up to the junta. This defiance comes even as the junta exploits popular grievances against France, the former colonial ruler, and seeks assistance from Russian mercenary group Wagner.

Meanwhile, in oil-rich Gabon, military officers seized power and placed President Ali Bongo under house arrest. This move was met with jubilation in the streets of Libreville, the Gabonese capital, but was condemned by the African Union and France.

The coup in Gabon adds to the growing list of military takeovers in Africa, including Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Chad.

The situation in Niger continues to escalate.

Two ultimatums have expired – one by the ECOWAS countries demanding the reinstatement of President Bazoum, and the other by the coup leaders demanding the departure of the French ambassador.

Both demands have been ignored, further complicating the situation.

Adding to the turmoil, the United Nations Peacekeeping force in Mali, known as MINUSMA, is being rapidly expelled from the country.

This unexpected demand was made by Mali back in June, citing deteriorating security conditions. The force had been in the country for a decade, but the surge in fighting has made its departure urgent.

Today, the French influence in Africa is facing significant challenges. From military coups to diplomatic standoffs, the once formidable French presence is now under threat.

As Macron navigates these turbulent waters, the world watches with bated breath.