Samuel Abu Jinapor is the MP for Damongo
The Ranking Member onf the Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has called on Ghana to take a leadership role in promoting democracy in the Sahel region.
He emphasised that as a nation built on democratic principles, Ghana must uphold and advocate for democratic governance in its engagements with neighboring countries, particularly Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
Abu Jinapor made these remarks in Parliament on March 28, 2025, while seconding the motion for the approval of the budget estimate for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.
Citing Article 40 of Ghana’s constitution, which mandates the government to promote democratic governance in its foreign relations, he stressed the need for Ghana to remain steadfast in this commitment, especially as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are currently under military rule.
“While we urge the Foreign Ministry to pursue the objective of regional integration, it is vital that we do not overlook the principles of democratic governance.
“We must work towards restoring democracy in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that all of West Africa and Africa at large are governed based on democratic practices,” he noted.
Abu Jinapor further underscored the importance of democracy as the foundation of governance and urged the government to play a proactive role in restoring constitutional rule in the Sahel.
He emphasised that ensuring the will of the people is reflected in governance structures across the region is crucial for long-term stability and development.
Expressing his support for the motion before the House, he urged Parliament to adopt the report endorsing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs budget, highlighting the significance of Ghana’s role in the international community.
“With these few words, I lend my support to the motion and ask that this House adopts this report, supporting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs so that ultimately, Ghana’s flag will fly high in the community of nations,” he concluded.
His remarks reaffirm Ghana’s commitment to democratic values and serve as a call to action for the government to prioritise democracy in its foreign policy engagements with the Sahel region.
AE