The African Union (AU) has firmly condemned military takeovers and reiterated its dedication to fostering peace, democracy, and prosperity across the continent.
Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security within the AU, stressed the critical importance of upholding peace and democratic values in Africa.
“Throughout the last decade, the African Union has consistently led the charge in advocating for democracy, constitutionalism, the rule of law, and sustainable development,” Adeoye remarked. “However, despite our efforts, significant challenges such as terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organized crime, and poverty persist. To combat these challenges, it is imperative that we collectively and vigorously defend democracy.”
Highlighting the inclusive nature of democracy, Adeoye urged all Africans to stand together in its defense, citing the 2022 Accra Declaration endorsed by African heads of state as evidence of the AU’s unwavering stance against military takeovers.
“The emerging threat posed by military regimes seeking to regress our continent will not be tolerated,” he emphasized.
The Accra Declaration, drafted in March 2022, reflects the AU’s determination to safeguard democracy and restore constitutional governance in nations under military rule.
“In March 2022, the African Union convened in Accra to rally all stakeholders in defense of democracy, resulting in the Accra Declaration endorsed by our heads of state,” Adeoye added.
The AU’s resolute stance serves as a clear warning against any attempts to undermine democratic processes through military intervention.
To further bolster its position and rally support for democracy, the AU is organizing the 2nd AU Reflection Forum on Unconstitutional Changes of Government, scheduled for March 18 and 19, 2024.