President John Dramani Mahama has addressed Ghanaians on his return from the United Nations on Sunday, after the UN voted to declare the slave trade a grave human rights violation.”
President Mahama said the development represents a significant step in acknowledging one of the gravest injustices in human history.
President Mahama, who is also the African Union’s Champion for Reparations, returned to Ghana on Sunday, March 29, to a rousing welcome.
Upon arrival, President Mahama reflected on the significance of the moment, noting that it serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through purpose and unity. He described the achievement as a proud moment for Ghana, Africa, and people of African descent worldwide, and affirmed that Ghana has once again demonstrated moral leadership on the global stage.
The reception was led by the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana and the Chief of Staff, accompanied by government ministers, traditional leaders, and citizens from across the country. The Vice President commended President Mahama for steering Africa’s motion on reparative justice to adoption at the UN, lauding his exemplary leadership and dedication to justice.
“This is a proud moment for Ghana. It is a proud moment for Africa. It is a proud moment for people of African descent wherever they are in the world,” he stated.
“This is not just about the past. It is about justice, dignity, and truth,” he added
The United Nations passed a historic resolution introduced by Ghana that labels slavery “a grave human rights violation.”
This was with 123 votes in favour.
The decision referred to the enslavement of about 12 million Africans and their descendants through the transatlantic slave trade. It is seen as a key step toward official apologies, the restitution of cultural artifacts, and reparations.
The United States was among the three countries that voted no, citing concerns about the resolution’s language and potential legal implications.
Source:Fiilafmonline/3News
