Freetown: His Excellency, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has issued a call for decisive action on United Nations Security Council reform, emphasizing Africa’s demand for permanent representation. Speaking at the Sixth Summit of the African Union Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government (C-10), which was held virtually, President Bio described the moment as a critical juncture in Africa’s two-decade-long push for equity and justice in global governance.
According to African Press Organization, President Bio, who also serves as the C-10 Coordinator, recounted key milestones since the Fifth C-10 Summit in Equatorial Guinea and the adoption of the Oyala Plan of Action in February 2024. He highlighted progress made under Sierra Leone’s presidency of the UN Security Council in August 2024, including the first-ever high-level debate addressing Africa’s exclusion from permanent membership.
President Bio stated that Africa’s call is not for charity but fairness, asserting that the continent will no longer accept marginalisation. He emphasized the need to align messaging, mobilise partners, and continue pressing for Africa’s inclusion in global governance, noting that such inclusion would enhance the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Security Council.
The summit concluded with a commitment from C-10 leaders to advance the Common African Position and ensure Africa’s voice remains central in global discussions on peace and security.