Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ghanaian Times
Published on 2024-03-18 09:56:47
The African Union (AU) Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Bankole Adeoye, delivered a powerful message urging Africans to uphold and defend democracy as the most effective system of government to fulfill the development goals of the continent. While acknowledging that democracy is not flawless, Adeoye emphasized that it has proven to be the most suitable governance system globally, contrasting the lack of progress and prosperity in countries that have experienced military takeovers.
Adeoye highlighted the shifting perspectives of youth in countries affected by military coups, noting that initial support for military leaders has transformed into disappointment as the situations that prompted the takeovers have only deteriorated. Speaking at a news conference in Accra, Adeoye shared insights on the AU Reflections Forum scheduled to take place from March 18 to 19. The forum, co-organized by the Peace and Security Council (PSC), ECOWAS, and the government of Ghana, focuses on the theme ‘Robust Response, Deepening Democracy, Sustainable Security.’
The upcoming forum aims to build on the achievements of the previous edition held in 2022 and the Malabo Declaration on Unconstitutional Changes of Government in Africa adopted in May 2022. Adeoye explained that the Accra II process will evaluate the progress made since the last forum, assess the root causes and impacts of unconstitutional changes of government in Africa, and make recommendations to enhance the AU’s responses to evolving challenges.
The forum will convene policymakers, representatives from various AU organs, regional economic communities, civil society organizations, youth and women groups, academics, and development partners to exchange views on strengthening democratic governance, promoting national ownership of governance processes, and reinforcing constitutionalism and the rule of law in Africa. Adeoye stressed the importance of aligning efforts to effectively implement the Malabo and Accra Declarations.
In her remarks, AU Peace and Security Council Chairperson Emilia Mkusa underscored the AU’s commitment to zero tolerance for Unconstitutional Changes of Government, with countries that violate this principle facing suspension as part of the sanction regimes. Mkusa emphasized the forum’s objective of identifying practical solutions to address unconstitutional changes of government.
Overall, the AU’s efforts to promote democracy, peace, and security in Africa are central to regional stability and development. Through collaborative forums like the AU Reflections Forum, stakeholders can work together to strengthen governance, uphold the rule of law, and combat threats to democratic institutions. Upholding democracy as the cornerstone of progress and prosperity is vital for Africa’s future success.
BY CLIFF EKUFUL
Read the original article on Ghanaian Times
