UN Chief, Guterres, tasks African leaders to demand permanent security Council seat

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday urged African leaders to demand a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, decrying the “historic injustices” against the continent.

Addressing the China-Africa forum, attended by over 50 African leaders, Guterres emphasized the need to correct the longstanding omission.

“It is outrageous… that the continent of Africa still has no permanent seat on the Security Council,” Guterres stated, highlighting the disparity.

He also pointed out the economic challenges faced by many African countries, struggling with debt and limited access to resources and funding.

Guterres praised China’s development record, particularly in poverty eradication, and suggested that the country’s expertise could benefit Africa.

“China’s remarkable record of development… provides a wealth of experience and expertise,” he said. He encouraged African leaders to leverage China’s support in areas like trade, finance, and technology to drive growth and development.

Read Also: Benue Assembly approves N6.6bn for LG elections, opposition PDP questions budget

The UN chief’s call for a permanent Security Council seat resonates with many Africans who feel marginalized in global decision-making. As the continent continues to grow and assert its influence, the demand for a seat at the table is likely to intensify.

“Africa can no longer be ignored or marginalized,” said one African diplomat. “We need a permanent seat to ensure our voices are heard and our interests represented.”

The China-Africa forum provides a platform for leaders to discuss cooperation and partnerships. As Guterres noted, “Africa can maximise the potential of China’s support… from trade to data management, finance, and technology.”

The push for a permanent Security Council seat is part of a broader effort to address the “injustices” faced by Africa. As Guterres emphasized, it’s time for the continent to take its rightful place on the global stage.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now