The 2024 Democratic Union of Africa (DUA) leaders Forum commenced on Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, at the Fiesta Royale Hotel in Accra, Ghana. The forum focused on the state of democracy and democratic institutions in Africa.
Distinguished speakers, including Ghana’s President, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and Vice President H.E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, addressed the gathering.
During a courtesy call visit to Jubilee (State)House the Capitol Hill of Ghana, President Akufo-Addo emphasized that military interventions and regimes are not the solution to Africa’s challenges. He urged African countries to strengthen democratic institutions to promote inclusive, accountable, and participatory governance.
Ghana’s Vice President Bawumia addressed the DUA annual leaders’ forum, stressing the importance of citizen empowerment through education, quality healthcare, promotion of free enterprise and individual liberties, digitalization for transparent governance, and closer cooperation.
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Party is ably represented by Hon. Eng. Patrick Amuriat Oboi, FDC Party President, and Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi, FDC Secretary General. Hon. Amuriat presented on the theme “Strengthening democratic institutions for political stability: crafting Africa’s response.” He highlighted the intrinsic link between democracy, rule of law, and economic development, emphasizing that democracy and rule of law protect individual freedoms.
Hon. Amuriat expressed his deep concern and disappointment at the erosion of democracy in many African countries, citing Uganda as a stark example where elections have become a mere ritual, devoid of genuine democratic expression. The country’s democratic institutions, he noted, have been undermined, and the rule of law has been compromised. This, he argued, has led to a breakdown in accountability, transparency, and participatory governance.
He emphasized that the reversal of democratic gains in Uganda and other African countries is a troubling trend that threatens the continent’s progress and stability. He urged African leaders and citizens to reclaim their democratic heritage and work towards strengthening democratic institutions, promoting free and fair elections, and upholding the rule of law.
The FDC delegation awarded a plaque to President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia in appreciation of their commitment to democracy and good governance.
The DUA conference coincided with Ghana’s campaign season, and delegations were dispatched to various parliamentary constituencies to benchmark and support NPP candidates and infrastructure.
Ghana will hold elections on December 7th, 2024, with Dr. Bawumia as the NPP presidential candidate. The DUA forum is currently co chaired by Hon. Freeman Mbowe the Party leader of Chama Cha Demokulasiya na maendeleo (CHADEMA) the main opposition Party of Tanzania and Ms. Louisa Atta Agyemang from the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) of Ghana.
The Forum provides an annual platform for over 20 political parties in Africa subscribing to the center-right political philosophy and ideology to convene, share best practices, connect, network, and strategize for the entrenchment of DUA ideals.
The FDC Party is a proud member of this continental prestigious platform.
One Uganda, One People
