Jonathan to African leaders: Ensuring inclusivity in democracy will build a stable society

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for inclusivity as a means of consolidating democracy and promoting peace and progress in Africa.

A statement by Ikechukwu Eze, his special adviser, said Jonathan spoke on Tuesday at the second annual retreat of Regional Economic Communities (RECs) special envoys, high representatives organised by International IDEA in Abuja.

Jonathan said in the face of increasing military coups, especially in West Africa, inclusivity and good governance are needed to convince people that civilian administrations are better than military governments.

He urged African leaders to work for the interest of all and avoid actions that could further divide the people and polarise their nations.

Jonathan said democracy will serve the people better if African leaders at all levels respect the laws of their nations.

“In Africa, democracy is currently facing many challenges including resurgence of coup d’état, citizen disenchantment, rising insecurity and tough economic situations for which special panels like this one is expected to interrogate and proffer solutions,” Jonathan said.

“I have always said that there is a strong connection between democracy and development.

“Hence, the need to deepen democracy, make it more inclusive and strengthen the institutions of governance, towards building a stable and prosperous society.”

Jonathan added that the issue of inclusivity is a key part of the discussions for improving the convergence principle mentioned in ECOWAS protocol on democracy and good governance.

He charged the participants at the high level retreat to come up with “concrete and actionable recommendations to respond in a sustainable and inclusive manner to these complex situations”.