Jonathan: Sustainability of democracy in West Africa key to solving challenges in region

Former President Goodluck Jonathan says the sustainability of democracy in West Africa is key to resolving the challenges in the sub-region.

Jonathan said this on Wednesday at a strategy meeting by the West Africa Elders Forum of which he is chairperson.

Speaking at the meeting, the former president said democracy is a communal asset and it therefore requires a collective action and consensus building by all stakeholders to safeguard it. 

“As a region, the fate of our democracy is been put to question by unconstitutional change of government as recently witnessed in Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso,” he said.

“These sad developments which have occasioned a gradual erosion of our civic space and value system is what has necessitated this meeting today. 

“Our gathering today therefore seeks to articulate  possible solutions and strategies that will help consolidate our democracy. This is with a view to actively engaging  with governments and key stakeholders to stem the tide of democratic backsliding and the breakdown of law and order in our nations.”

Jonathan expressed worry that some members of the sub-region are beginning to opt for military intervention because of what they consider as flaws of democratically-elected leaders. 

“As respected leaders, I am aware that many of you here wield great influence in our sub-region and continent. Together, we can leverage our experiences and the power of diplomacy to resolve the crisis in ECOWAS today,” he said.

“The sustainability of democracy in West Africa is key to resolving many of our challenges. I therefore appeal to all our leaders across our nations to make democracy work for the interest of all citizens. 

“This is why we need to continually advocate for the strengthening of our democratic institutions. Strong institutions are the pillars for the sustenance of our democracy and the development of our nations. 

“As stakeholders we must therefore help in this regard and fashion out the best approach towards the strengthening of political systems.  

“Today, we must interrogate some fundamental issues such as recurring military intervention, democracy and good governance, peace and security, economic development as well as human trafficking in our sub-region.”