AU chief calls for actions on stability of Africa

The chair of the African Union Commission (AUC) has urged leaders to address conflicts on the continent and criticized a series of coups in certain African nations.

Moussa Faki Mahamat issued this plea in the opening session of the two-day AU summit.

The Sudanese conflict, the instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo, war in Gaza, climate change, and poverty are the leading issues to be considered by the bloc.

During his address to summit delegates in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Mr. Faki, who heads the AU’s secretariat overseeing the bloc’s daily operations, expressed grave concern over a “range of challenges” confronting the region, including the war in Sudan that has sent millions of people into exile.

The AU Chair also raised concerns over the instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasizing that the conflict in the eastern part of the country was exacerbating its ongoing, persistent crises.

He stressed that “Africa cannot remain arms folded and not work to promote genuine peace in the region.”

Mr Faki condemned “unconstitutional changes of government” in response to a series of coups in West Africa and voiced apprehension about terrorism destabilizing some countries on the continent.

He also addressed the postponements of the election in Senegal, saying the situation in the West African country, “a model country in terms of democracy, worries us to a great degree.”

However, the top diplomat commended the decision of President Macky Sall to adhere to the court ruling while hoping that free and credible elections will be conducted soon.