The President of the Central African Republic, François Bozizé, has been overthrown in a coup. Bozizé, who took power himself in a 2003 coup, was once a general under self-proclaimed emperor Bokassa I.
Here are some books about Bokassa and his short-lived Central African Empire.
I think constitutional monarchies would benefit the development of many countries in Africa.
They way I see it there is a need for a non party political international representation of many African countries. A Constitutional monarchy (or limited monarchy) is a form of government in which a monarch acts as head of state within the guidelines of a constitution.
This form of government differs from absolute monarchy in which an absolute monarch serves as the source of power in the state and is not legally bound by any constitution and has the powers to regulate his or her respective government. Most constitutional monarchies employ a parliamentary system in which the monarch may have strictly ceremonial duties or may have reserve powers, depending on the constitution. For development It is important with a sense of continuity, independent of what political party is elected. A constitutional monarch could serve that purposes of continuity, and also be able to act as an international non political ambassador for the country.
I believe this would benefit trade, commerce and investment for many African countries. Also the monarch in his ceremonial duties would be able to create a sense of national belonging for the people, and act as a unifying symbol above party politics.
HSH Prince Leopold Donchield Zu Leone II, Sierra Leone