President Mahama has strongly condemned the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for an immediate end to the violence and collective punishment of innocent Palestinian civilians. He emphasized that a two-state solution would not be a reward for Hamas but a retreat for the hundreds of thousands of innocent people facing collective punishment and forced starvation.
The President drew attention to the conflict in Sudan, described by the UN as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with 12 million people displaced. He urged the global community to provide assistance to these refugees, similar to the support given to Ukrainian refugees.
He also highlighted Africa’s significance in shaping the world’s future, citing the continent’s demographic growth, resilience, and untapped potential. He stated, “The future is African,” emphasizing that Africa will play a defining role in global peace, development, and economic transformation.
The President called for reform of the UN Security Council to reflect today’s realities, advocating for at least one permanent seat for Africa and limiting the veto power of the five permanent member nations. He argued that no single nation should exercise absolute veto power to serve its own interests in a conflict.
He again urged a reset of the global financial architecture, which he believes is rigged against Africa. He emphasized the need for Africa to have a greater say in multilateral financial institutions and exercise sovereignty over its natural resources to fund development.
The President further stressed the importance of empowering women and girls, highlighting Ghana’s progress with its first female Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. He expressed hope for a world that guarantees equality and safety for women and girls.
President Mahama advocated for reparations for the enslavement of Africans and colonization of African lands, which resulted in the theft of natural resources and cultural heritage. He announced Ghana’s intention to introduce a motion in the UN to recognize the slave trade as the greatest crime against humanity.
Source:graphic.com.gh