Deputy Majority Leader of Ghana’s Parliament and Leader of Ghana’s Delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has emphasized the critical importance of standing united against military coups and unconstitutional regime changes in West Africa.
Addressing a distinguished audience, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Honourable Speaker Sidie Mohammed Tunis of the ECOWAS Parliament, Afenyo-Markin highlighted the pressing need to foster stability and democracy in the sub-region.
He acknowledged the impact of global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Russia, on West African nations. Despite these challenges, the MP emphasized the resilience and grace displayed by citizens in the face of adversity.
Addressing the opening ceremony of an ECOWAS Parliamentary seminar on Friday, September 29 at Winneba, the Deputy Majority leader condemned recent military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Chad, and Gabon, along with hostilities in Sudan.
He described these coups as a betrayal of democratic principles and called for a swift return to constitutional rule, emphasizing that regression is not the solution for West Africa’s progress.
The seminar, under the theme, ‘The challenges of unconstitutional regime change and presidential term limits in West Africa – The role of the ECOWAS Parliament, will conclude on Sunday, October 1.
Afenyo-Markin stressed the importance of democracy as the foundation for progress, justice, and freedom stating, “We need to protect democratic institutions, ensuring they remain resilient amidst evolving challenges.”
He drew inspiration from the late Kofi Annan’s words, emphasizing the universal principles of democracy, human rights, and freedoms.
The Deputy leader warned against leaders attempting to modify constitutions unlawfully to prolong their hold on power. He called for vigilance and a firm stance against the erosion of democratic principles, urging the audience to protect the sanctity of democratic processes.
He said, “The shield protecting the flames of democracy and freedom from despotism and tyranny is our unity. West African nations should stand shoulder to shoulder, nurture the values of freedom, dignity, and the rule of law.”
He called for a collective endeavor to nurture a West Africa where nations’ harmony is preserved, and people’s aspirations are realized. He envisioned a future marked by dignity, prosperity, and the rich tapestry of diverse cultures and histories.
Afenyo-Markin called for unity and resilience and urged the ECOWAS parliamentarians to carry the vibrant spirit of Winneba back to their respective nations.
He expressed conviction that together, West African nations would overcome challenges and triumph as a united, resilient, and prosperous community.
