UN General Assembly
2012

principles, to accord legitimacy to unconstitutional regimes by allowing them to participate in its activities on an equal footing with bona fide Members. In Africa, we have adopted a policy of zero tolerance to unconstitutional changes of Government, and have remained steadfast in our resolve to refuse to recognize Governments that have no democratic legitimacy. We urge the international community to support that policy and to make it universal. Africa has not been without successes in pursuing the settlement of disputes by peaceful means. The United Nations, the African Union and other stakeholders have worked together with the Somali authorities to pave the way for peace in Somalia. The positive results of that joint effort are beginning to be visible. Remarkable strides towards democracy and State-building have been registered. The election of the President less than two weeks ago is a cause for celebration. Today, the people of Somalia have reason to hope that they can put the unfortunate era of instability behind them. It is important to recognize, however, that the road ahead