The Vice President of Ghana, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, asserts that the key to maintaining peace and political stability in Africa lies in the execution of free, fair, and transparent elections.
He articulated this viewpoint on Thursday, August 8, 2024, during the inauguration of the Democrat Union of Africa (DUA Forum 2024) in Accra, an event organized with the support of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
This high-profile gathering, themed “Strengthening Democratic Institutions for Political Stability: Crafting Africa’s Response,” attracted a diverse array of participants from across Africa and beyond.
In his keynote address, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the 2024 Presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), shared his insights on the matter.
Ghana’s democratic journey is a testament to the importance of nurturing democratic institutions. Our electoral processes are characterized by transparency and credibility, with institutions like the Electoral Commission playing a pivotal role in ensuring free and fair elections. The peaceful transition of power between different political parties over the past three decades is a hallmark of our democracy, demonstrating our commitment to upholding the will of the people.
Strengthening Democratic Institutions for Political Stability: Crafting Africa’s Response, is both timely and critical. It underscores the pivotal role that robust democratic frameworks play in fostering political stability and socioeconomic progress.
Ghana, with its strong democratic track record, serves as an exemplary case study of both the successes and complexities of democratic consolidation in Africa. By leveraging Ghana’s experiences, this forum aims to spark solution-oriented conversations and foster a shared commitment to solidifying democratic institutions across the continent.
As we gather here today, let us draw inspiration from Ghana’s experiences and commit to strengthening democracies across the Continent. Our collective efforts can transform Africa into a beacon of democracy, stability, and prosperity. The African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals provide a roadmap for achieving this vision.
He urged the stakeholders to reaffirm their shared dedication to enhancing democratic governance throughout Africa.
I urge all political leaders and stakeholders present here today to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, individual freedoms, and economic growth. Let us work together to strengthen our democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law, and create an environment where every African can have a decent shot at making it in life. The future of Africa depends on our actions today, and together, we can craft a response that ensures a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow for our continent.
In Ghana, we have witnessed significant achievements under the leadership of President Nana Akufo-Addo. Our government’s emphasis on education, healthcare, and digitalization has led to remarkable progress in these areas. The introduction of free senior high school education has opened doors for countless young Ghanaians, ensuring that education remains a cornerstone of our national development. Our healthcare initiatives, particularly the expansion of health care infrastructure and improvement of the National Health Insurance Scheme, have significantly enhanced access to medical services for all Ghanaians.
I wish to extend my best wishes to all political parties and candidates in their upcoming elections, including myself, as Ghana heads towards its general elections this December, in what is earmarked to be a historic moment for our nation’s democracy.
