Dr. Bawumia Advocates for Free, Fair Elections as Key to Africa’s Stability at DUA Forum 2024
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has underscored the importance of free, fair, and transparent elections in maintaining peace and political stability across Africa. Speaking at the Democrat Union of Africa (DUA Forum 2024), Bawumia emphasized that these principles are essential for sustaining democratic values on the continent.
The high-profile event, which took place under the auspices of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), gathered political leaders and stakeholders from across Africa and beyond. Themed “Strengthening Democratic Institutions for Political Stability: Crafting Africa’s Response,” the forum highlighted the critical role robust democratic frameworks play in fostering stability and progress.
In his keynote address, Dr. Bawumia highlighted Ghana’s democratic journey as a model for Africa, praising the nation’s electoral transparency and the role of the Electoral Commission in ensuring credible elections. “Ghana’s peaceful transition of power over the past three decades stands as a testament to our commitment to upholding the will of the people,” he said.
Reflecting on the forum’s theme, Dr. Bawumia noted that it was both timely and essential for promoting discussions on strengthening democratic institutions. He urged participants to draw inspiration from Ghana’s experiences and collaborate to enhance democracies across the continent. “Our collective efforts can transform Africa into a beacon of democracy, stability, and prosperity,” he stated, while also referencing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals as guiding frameworks for this vision.
Dr. Bawumia also praised President Nana Addo-Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration, citing significant achievements in education, healthcare, and digitalization. He lauded the introduction of free senior high school education and improvements in the National Health Insurance Scheme as key accomplishments under Akufo-Addo’s leadership.
The Vice President concluded his address by extending his best wishes to all presidential candidates in the upcoming general elections across Africa. He urged all political leaders and stakeholders to renew their commitment to democratic governance, individual freedoms, and economic growth, emphasizing that Africa’s future depends on today’s actions.
