Responding to concerns about the risk of division within the continent, Kagame emphasized that the seats should not be held by any single nation permanently
His response was clear: 'One permanent seat would have to be held by AU Commission and 2nd seat by African Country on rotational basis!!! Not held by any single country permanently.'
His remarks came after Kenyan Ambassador Martin Kimani, who leads the Center on International Cooperation (CIC), expressed reservations about the current proposal to grant Africa two permanent seats.
Kimani said, 'Africa must be strategic in considering these P5 invitations for permanent Security Council seats. Without proper reforms in the AU, the U.S. offer â€" though welcome â€" would turn the Union into a club of 2 giants and 53 minnows, deepening division and fragmenting our collective intent.'
'Such changes at the UN must align with, and be secondary to, Africa's historic journey of integration, or they will become mere feel-good measures that uphold current power structures without better safeguarding international peace, security, and African independence,' he warned.
If Africa were to be granted these two seats, it would help the continent have a stronger voice in decisions affecting its member states on security matters. A permanent seat gives its holder the power to veto decisions supported by other countries.
Kagame's comments reflect his long-standing advocacy for a more inclusive and united Africa on the global stage. His proposal ensures that all African nations would have a chance to be represented, promoting equity and collective responsibility across the continent.
Sam K Nkurunziza
