The Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) has called on African leaders to safeguard democracies in the continent through the adherence to the rule of law and delivery of good governance.
The GJF
Executive Director Ms Ann Iyonu, gave the advice in a statement issued by the
foundation’s Communications Officer, Mr Wealth Ominabo to mark 2021
International Day of Democracy.
The
International Day of Democracy is celebrated around the world on Sept. 15 each
year.
The
foundation also called on the government to deliver on the promises of good
governance, prioritise credible elections and guarantee the rights of all
citizens.
Iyonu
expressed worry over the essential values of democracy such as the rule of law,
separation of powers and constitutionalism that were no longer adhered to in
many African countries.
The
trend, according to her, posed a threat to the survival of the continent’s
democracy.
“Democracy
as a form of government is a platform for achieving peace, equality, justice,
inclusion and sustainable development.
“However,
in many African countries today, the essential values of democracy such as the
rule of law, separation of powers and constitutional term limits are no longer
adhered to.
“This
situation poses threat to the survival of democracy in Africa, as the promises
of peace, justice and human freedoms are daily betrayed,’’ she said.
Iyonu
urged the government to safeguard our democracies from further recession and
attacks.
She called
on the government to deliver on the promises of good governance and prioritise
free and credible elections to guarantee the rights of all citizens.
“Democracy
flourishes in an atmosphere of peace, freedom and justice.
“This is
the route we should follow to foster our democracies and make democracy
meaningful to all citizens,” Iyonu said.
It was
established through a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in 2007,
encouraging governments to strengthen and consolidate democracy.
Since the
day was first observed in 2008, hundreds of parliamentary events have been held
worldwide.
The
International Day is an opportunity to review the state of democracy around the
world. Each year highlights a specific theme.
Past
themes have included stronger democracies, the importance of democracy for the
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, strengthening the voices of citizens,
dialogue and inclusiveness, accountability, and political tolerance.
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