Ghanaian activists petition AU to remove AfCFTA Secretary-General

Ghanaian activists have formally petitioned the African Union (AU) to remove Wamkele Keabetswe Mene. He serves as the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. This action stems from concerns over South Africa's persistent xenophobic attacks against fellow Africans. The petition was sent on May 31, 2026. Political activist Solomon Owusu and lawyer Andrew Appiah-Danquah are the lead petitioners.

The activists argue that Mr. Mene's continued leadership is no longer suitable. They cite South Africa's ongoing failure to protect African citizens. This failure, they contend, directly contradicts the core values of the AfCFTA. The trade bloc aims for unity and cooperation among African nations. The petitioners emphasize their commitment to Pan-Africanism. They seek to preserve the integrity of this major integration project.

The AfCFTA is more than just a trade deal. It represents the African Union's most significant integration effort since 1963. Its goals include boosting trade between African countries. It also aims to ease the movement of goods and people. Deepening economic cooperation is another key objective. The Secretary-General acts as a symbol of this ambition. This role requires strong moral leadership. The petition highlights a pattern of xenophobic violence in South Africa. This has affected citizens from Ghana, Nigeria, and other nations. These incidents include assaults and property destruction.

The petitioners state their action is not personal. It is driven by a deep belief in African unity. They point to a two-decade history of xenophobic incidents in South Africa. These attacks have led to fear and displacement. They also note the perceived failure of South African authorities. These administrations have not decisively ended the violence. This has created a crisis of confidence across the continent. The activists believe this situation tests South Africa's commitment to Pan-African ideals. They feel a country associated with such hostility cannot provide needed moral leadership.

The architects of the petition acknowledge Mr. Mene's professional skills. However, they stress that leading AfCFTA needs moral authority. This is especially true given historical support for South Africa's liberation. Countries like Ghana and Nigeria offered significant aid. South Africa therefore has a greater duty to uphold Pan-African values. The success of AfCFTA relies on trust. Africans must believe they can move and trade freely. South Africa's xenophobic reality sends the opposite message. This undermines the free movement principle the AfCFTA champions.

The activists warn the AU about its image. Tolerating such hostility within a key member state is damaging. It risks eroding confidence in both AfCFTA and the AU itself. The AU must act consistently with its stated values. Ignoring the continuing xenophobia could appear as indifference. This petition signals a serious challenge to the leadership of a vital continental institution. It calls for accountability from member states and the union.