By: Edzorna Francis Mensah
The President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called for collective efforts to deal with the growing threat of terrorism on the African Continent and other parts of the world.
According to him, the world is still experiencing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has compelled all to work together to survive with the support of Information Technology Communication
The President who delivered the keynote address at the conference under the theme “The Commonwealth Charter 10 years on: Values and Principles for Parliament to Uphold” said, that as countries prepare to exit the doldrums of the pandemic, “the world has been hit again with series of geo-political crises, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the recent coup d’états in some parts of Africa”.
He said, “Extreme flooding and earthquakes in recent times, which are attributable to climate change, have also resulted in loss of lives, particularly in Rwanda, Libya, and Morocco. These crises are a threat to the foundation of our democratic values and institutions, and a clarion call on us to work together to address this new challenge. It is a call on all Parliaments to act”.
The President emphasized that it is, therefore, no coincidence that the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association is meeting here in Accra to deliberate on the above theme as representatives of the people.
He used the occasion to urge the Conference to reflect deeply on these values and principles and focus its discussions on the goal of attaining and maintaining the democratic ethos of this noble community.
He however, commended the Commonwealth for its commitment to the rule of law, open and tolerant societies, equality for all, and respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms.
“It is my expectation that this Conference will provide the opportunity for us to reflect on our past achievements, deliberate on the current challenges, and work towards achieving the aspirations of our people. With a common purpose, the Commonwealth can achieve more for all by fostering greater friendships, partnerships, and cooperation through diplomacy”, he mentioned.
On his part, the Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament and the President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin noted that the conference brings together parliamentarians from across the Commonwealth on a single platform to share experiences and good practices as well as promotes the values of the Commonwealth, including commitment to the highest standards and principles of democratic governance and parliamentary practice.
According to the Speaker, this Conference will also discuss matters relating to security, environment, youth empowerment, gender, and human rights to unravel mechanisms to safeguard the continuous growth and development of parliamentary democracy in the Commonwealth.
“It is my expectation that our interactions at the Conference, workshops, and side events would engender enduring friendships and networks”, he noted as he encouraged all to take advantage of their tours and experience the beauty, nature, culture, tradition, and vast collection of artifacts of the country.
