By Savannah Pokuaah Duah
President John Mahama has emphasized that “democracy cannot thrive in the presence of fear or repression,” during his keynote address at the African Union (AU) High-Level Dialogue on July 29, 2025.
His remarks come at a time when calls for justice, opportunity, and inclusivity are growing across the continent.
Addressing the gathering, President Mahama urged African leaders to move beyond ceremonial dialogues and lofty speeches.
“Our citizens are watching and waiting. Our young people comprise the majority of our population and are growing increasingly impatient,” he said.
He commended the AU Executive Council for extending the Theme of the Year on Reparations to a Decade on Reparations from 2026 to 2036.
“These are critical milestones. We must empower these bodies with the resources, visibility, and mandate to lead us on this noble journey of truth, justice, and restitution,” he stated.
President Mahama also called for legally binding frameworks across member states to protect civic space.
“We must protect the right to organize, to protest, and to participate,” he said, stressing that governments must serve all citizens, not just a privileged few.
He explained that civic disengagement is often the result of exclusion and systemic failure rather than mere apathy.
“It is crucial that we integrate political and civic education into our school curriculum,” he added. “Democracy must be more than just institutional; it must be relational and rooted in the daily lives, experiences, and expectations of our people.”
President Mahama concluded with a passionate call for unity and determination.
“Let us boldly pursue justice for our past, present, and future generations. This is not a romantic notion; it is a practical and achievable goal, if we are united and determined.”
