The Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has called on Ghana to take a leadership role in promoting democratic governance in the Sahel region.
Speaking in Parliament, the Damongo MP emphasized that Ghana, as a country built on democratic principles, must uphold and advocate these values, particularly in its interactions with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—three nations currently under military rule.
Upholding constitutional mandates
Mr. Jinapor referenced Article 40 of Ghana’s Constitution, which mandates the government to promote democratic governance in its dealings with other nations.
He stressed that while regional integration remains a key priority, it must not come at the cost of Ghana’s fundamental democratic ideals.
“While we urge the Foreign Ministry to pursue the objective of regional integration, it is vital that we do not overlook the principles of democratic governance,” he stated.
Democracy as the cornerstone of governance
The MP reiterated that democracy should be the foundation of governance, just as it is in Ghana.
He warned that military takeovers in neighboring countries pose a significant threat to regional stability and must be addressed with urgency.
According to him, restoring democracy in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger should be a top priority for Ghana’s foreign policy, ensuring that West Africa remains governed by constitutional rule and the will of the people.
Support for the Foreign Affairs Ministry
Mr. Jinapor made these remarks while seconding the motion for the approval of the budget estimate for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.
He expressed his full support for the motion, urging Parliament to adopt the report backing the Ministry’s initiatives.
“With these few words, I lend my support to the motion and ask that this House adopts this report, supporting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs so that ultimately, Ghana’s flag will fly high in the community of nations,” he concluded.
Govt’s commitment to democratic values
His remarks reaffirm Ghana’s commitment to democratic governance and serve as a call to action for the government to champion constitutional rule in the Sahel.
With instability and military rule threatening the region, Ghana’s leadership in advocating democracy could play a crucial role in ensuring long-term stability, peace, and development in West Africa.
