President John Dramani Mahama has called for Africa to be granted a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council with full veto rights.
Addressing the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he argued that the current structure no longer reflects global realities and continues to marginalise Africa.
Mahama reminded the Assembly that while only four African nations were founding members of the UN in 1945, the continent today represents one of the fastest growing regions in terms of population and youth. “Africa must be guaranteed at least one permanent seat on the Security Council with veto power,” he said, stressing that the world’s future cannot be shaped without African representation at the highest level.
The Ghanaian leader, however, cautioned against the misuse of the veto. He told the Assembly that no single country should be allowed to block decisions for narrow self-interest. “The veto must serve the collective good, not the agenda of individual powers,” he said.
Mahama further suggested that the General Assembly should have the right to review or challenge a veto in cases where it undermines global peace and security. According to him, such a mechanism would make the United Nations more accountable and responsive to the needs of all its members.
His remarks formed part of a wider appeal for reforms to the global system. He criticised the current international financial order as unfair to developing countries and insisted that Africa’s rising demographic and economic weight must be matched with stronger political influence.
By Julius Blay JABS
