Microsoft Word - Idasa considers implications of unrest in Africa 1 March 2011.doc 1 March 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE African citizens demand change, Idasa looks at implications for the continent Now is the time for the African Union, regional African blocs and individual African leaders to stand beside Africa's citizens in their call for greater democracy on our continent. [...] African democracy institute Idasa sees in the waves of popular uprising in North Africa the opportunity for African leadership to support democratic consolidation; a consolidation that will allow for the advancement of the economic opportunities for Africa's citizens and the amplifying of the voice of our people. [...] Despite differing circumstances and contexts, all the peoples in uprising share in common a demand -- so long unheard -- for human rights, reform and an end to the autocratic dispensations. [...] Idasa, as one of the leading democracy think-tanks on the continent, is inspired by this display of citizen action and calls for decisive leadership now to prevent further bloodshed, ensure civilian authorities are installed in government and support the change cried out for by citizens. [...] Is Ivory Coast to be the third country in which we as Africa allow an incumbent head of state to subvert election results and use violence to demand a continued presence in government? We are very concerned that a precedent is being set in place that will have serious long-term consequences for our continent.
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- Port Elizabeth, South Africa
