By Jeremiah Nutsugah
The African Union (AU) is poised as it convenes the Second Reflection Forum on Unconstitutional Changes of Government (UCGs) in Accra, Ghana.
Taking place will take place from Monday, March 18 to 19, 2024, at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, the forum, also referred to as the Accra II Process on UCGs, builds upon the momentum of its inaugural edition held in March 2022.
The theme “Robust Response, Deepening Democracy, Sustainable Security,” this year’s forum underscores the urgency of the challenges faced.
H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, emphasized the significance of the Accra II process, reaffirming the AU’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring sustainable security in Africa.
“Through robust dialogue and collaboration, we aim to address the root causes of unconstitutional changes of government and strengthen democratic governance across the continent,” he stated during a Press Conference in Accra on Sunday, March 17, 2024.
H.E. Ambassador Emilia Mkusa, Chairperson of the AU Peace and Security Council, emphasized the forum’s role in shaping effective responses to evolving challenges.
“By engaging a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from AU member states, regional economic communities, and civil society organizations, we can collectively develop strategies to prevent and address unconstitutional changes of government,” she noted.
Policymakers, civil society organizations, and development partners will engage in candid discussions and idea exchange to advance democratic governance and enhance the rule of law, he added.”
The forum will also provide an opportunity to review progress since the 2022 Accra Reflection Forum and identify areas for improvement.
Participants are discussing consolidating democratic governance, promoting national ownership of governance processes, and enhancing coordination among AU institutions and partners.
