President William Ruto has issued a strong call for reform at the United Nations, demanding Africa’s inclusion in the Security Council’s permanent membership. Speaking during the UN General Assembly Debate at the UN headquarters in New York on Wednesday evening, Ruto described the current global governance structure as unjust and outdated.
“You cannot claim to be the United Nations while disregarding the voice of 54 nations. It is not possible,” Ruto declared, pointing to the exclusion of Africa from permanent decision-making on peace, security, and development.
The Kenyan leader argued that Africa is no longer willing to be a bystander in global affairs. He stressed that the continent, home to over one billion people, must have its voice represented at the highest level of international decision-making.
“Africa is no longer willing to wait on the margins of global governance while decisions on peace, security and development are made without our understanding, perspective and voices,” he said.
Ruto insisted that granting Africa at least two permanent seats on the Security Council is not a matter of generosity, but of necessity. He described the current arrangement as a threat to the credibility and survival of the United Nations itself.
“Reforming the council is not a favour, it is a necessity for the United Nations’ own survival,” Ruto emphasized. “If the UN is to remain relevant, it must remain up to speed with current realities.”
The Security Council, which is responsible for maintaining international peace and security, has five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—alongside ten rotating members. Calls for reform have been ongoing for decades, but consensus has remained elusive.
By challenging the status quo at the global stage, Ruto positioned himself as a leading voice for Africa’s demand for fair representation in global governance. His remarks add pressure on the UN to address long-standing concerns about inclusivity and legitimacy.
