The United Nations Secretary General calls on conflict prevailing countries across Africa to observe the UN call for a global ceasefire to push back the deadly coronavirus.

 

As Africans across the globe and the continent in particular celebrate the Africa Day, the UN secretary General António Guterres communicated a message to Africa, as he is concerned with the corona virus pandemic.

According to António Guterres, the pandemic “threatens to derail progress” the progress of Africa from reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and development targets laid down in the Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063.

In an interview with RFI last week, António Guterres said he is disappointed that a ceasefire he called is not respected in Cameroon.

When the coronavirus entered Cameroon, the UN boss called on both parties in armed conflict to observe a ceasefire in order to push back the virus.

Though disappointed that the violence has rather escalated after his call for a ceasefire by both parties, António Guterres says he has hopes.

According to Guterres, president Paul Biya has been positive in the possibility of calling a ceasefire, nothing a dialogue be held with the Anglophone separatists.

In his message on May 25, 2020, commemorating the Africa Day, António Guterres appreciated the African Union’s support to his call for a global ceasefire, an act which reflects the AU’s 2020 theme: “Silencing the Guns: Creating Conducive Conditions for Africa’s Development.”

He acknowledged that armed groups in Cameroon, Sudan, and South Sudan responded to his call for a ceasefire.

“Armed groups in Cameroon, Sudan and South Sudan have responded to the call and declared unilateral ceasefires. I implore other armed movements and governments in Africa to do likewise.  I also welcome the support of African countries for my call for peace in the home, and an end to all forms of violence, including against women and girls”, he said.

“I urge African political actors to engage in inclusive and sustained political dialogue to ease tensions around elections and uphold democratic practices,” Guterres added.

 

Kiffasblog