NEW YORK, (HAN) – Kenyan President William Ruto delivered a forceful address at the United Nations General Assembly, stressing that Africa’s continued exclusion from permanent membership on the UN Security Council undermines the credibility, fairness, and inclusivity of the world body.
President Ruto argued that the absence of African representation is especially unjust given the continent’s disproportionate burden of instability, conflict, and peacekeeping operations. “It is unacceptable that a continent of 1.4 billion people, which contributes so much to global peace and development, remains sidelined from the highest decision-making organ of the United Nations,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing global debate on UN reform, with Russia — a permanent member of the Security Council — openly supporting Africa’s demand for a permanent seat. Moscow has positioned itself as a partner to Africa, advocating for what it describes as equal treatment in international governance.
Analysts note that while Russia and China have voiced support for Africa’s representation, Western powers remain cautious, concerned that expanding permanent membership could weaken their influence and complicate Security Council dynamics.
The call from President Ruto adds momentum to the African Union’s long-standing demand under the Ezulwini Consensus, which insists on at least two permanent seats for Africa with full veto powers.
Whether Western powers will align with Africa’s push remains uncertain. However, the Kenyan leader’s speech underscored the urgency of reforming global institutions to reflect 21st-century realities rather than the geopolitical order of 1945.
