Bawumia advocates for free and fair elections as key to Africa’s stability
Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the critical importance of free, fair, and transparent elections in sustaining peace and political stability across Africa.
Speaking on August 8, 2024, at the opening of the Democrat Union of Africa (DUA) Forum 2024 in Accra, Dr. Bawumia highlighted Ghana’s democratic journey as an example of how nurturing democratic institutions can foster political stability.
The forum, organized under the auspices of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), brought together participants from across Africa and beyond to discuss the theme, “Strengthening Democratic Institutions for Political Stability: Crafting Africa’s Response.”
Dr. Bawumia noted that Ghana’s electoral processes are marked by transparency and credibility, with the Electoral Commission playing a vital role in ensuring free and fair elections.
He underscored the peaceful transition of power between different political parties over the past three decades as a testament to Ghana’s commitment to democracy.
Dr. Bawumia urged African leaders to draw inspiration from Ghana’s experiences and work collectively to solidify democratic institutions across the continent.
He called for a renewed commitment to democratic governance, individual freedoms, and economic growth, stressing that the future of Africa depends on the actions taken today.
Highlighting the achievements of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, Dr. Bawumia pointed to significant progress in education, healthcare, and digitalization.
He also extended best wishes to all political parties and candidates contesting upcoming elections in Africa, including himself, as Ghana approaches its general elections in December.
The DUA Forum 2024 saw participation from various political parties across Africa, including the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) in Uganda, Inkatha Freedom Party in South Africa, Unity Party in Liberia, and many others, reflecting the continent-wide commitment to strengthening democratic institutions.