By Nathaniel Nartey
The African Union, AU in collaboration with the government of Ghana through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will today commence a 3-day conference to reflect on unconstitutional removal of governments on the continent.
Ahead of the Summit, the Commissioner of Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the AU has pointed out that the Continental Body has been proactive in dealing with the menace, which is contrary to widely held perception.
At a media briefing in Accra, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong explained that the numerous threats to democracy in West Africa informed government of Ghana’s decision in her capacity as Chair of ECOWAS to collaborate with the AU to find solution to the problem
Since March 21 last year, Africa has witnessed 4 military takeovers and removal of constitutionally elected governments from power.
The four countries, Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea are all currently suspended from the AU. Three of the 4 countries suspended by the AU are serving similar suspensions from ECOWAS by virtue of their membership of the regional bloc.
This is a clear indication that democracy is under threat not only in the sub-region but Africa as a whole.
It is for this reason that the government of Ghana and the AU is partnering to reflect on these Security challenges and proffer solutions.
Addressing the media in Accra, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the AU, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye explained that the conference is a proactive step at tackling political instability.
He used the Sudan example to justify the AU’s proactiveness
“The event of 25th October 2021 in Sudan led to the peace and security council responding and that is proactive. It took less than 24 hours to convey that summit and got Sudan suspended for being proactive”.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong talked about some expectations.
“The forum will deliberate and reshape strategies to promote constitutionalism and rule of law towards democracy and inclusive governance for the enhancement of peace, security and stability in Africa.”
The conference is expected to bring together representatives of AU Member States, Peace and Security Council, relevant AU organs and Institutions, Regional Economic Communities and Civil Society Organisations including African Think Tanks, Academia and Professional Organizations.
