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Peace and security must be maintained

Oct 14, 2010, 1:15 PM

Peace and security is fundamental in any democratic state, and it is important for every law-abiding citizen to cherish the peace and order in our society.

Today, Africa is confronted with lot of unsettled conflicts, and this has clearly shown that the continent still has a long way to go in achieving peace and security.

Despite the fact that remarkable strides have been made in democratic governance, there are still challenges with respect to peace and security.

The continent continues to stifle movement toward progress in democratic development.

It is now high time for the African Union (AU) and other international bodies to address the issue of peace and security at the highest political level.

The issue should not only be discussed at international meetings and it stops there, but necessary action must be taken by African governments in order to bring peace and stability in our continent.

That the third ordinary session of the second Pan-African Parliament meeting in South Africa focusing on peace and security is indeed timely.

For Africa to have peace and security, African Union member states should come together to address their individual problems first, and try to solve their differences at the continental level, and avoid the interference of some countries who might have a vested interest in their resources. As the adage has it - united we stand, divided we fall.

Unity, therefore, should be maintained for peace and prosperity in the continent to be.

Let us not allow anyone to divide us - the peace and stability of the continent should be our major concern.

We must do away with unnecessary conflicts, and the only way these problems can be tackled is through dialogue.

Therefore, we would like to commend the Pan-African Parliament for putting peace and security high on their agenda.

Reconciliation efforts must be intensified, and appreciating one another is crucial in maintaining peace.

In Guinea Conakry, for instance, there is an absolute need to ensure free and fair elections so as to maintain peace and stability in the volatile West African region.

We welcome the agreement reached by Guinea's politicians to form a national unity government, whatever the outcome of next week's election.