Casablanca Declaration of the African Democratic Alliance for Freedom and Progress (ADAFP)

Preamble We, the founding members of the African Democratic Alliance for Freedom and Progress (ADAFP), representing democratic, liberal, and progressive political movements across the African continent, gather to establish a unifying platform dedicated to strengthening democratic governance, fostering liberal and progressive ideals, and supporting one another in our shared pursuit of electoral success, justice, and good governance.

• Guided by the enduring ideals of Pan-Africanism, as envisioned by the African Union, and inspired by the democratic principles enshrined in the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance,
• Reaffirming our commitment to the core values of good governance and democracy, human rights, political and economic freedom; justice, and the rule of law, for sustainable development,
• Recognizing that cooperation among like-minded forces is vital to achieving a prosperous, stable, and united Africa that truly serves its people,
• Determined to provide mutual support, share resources, and exchange knowledge to empower our movements to win elections and effect meaningful, positive change across the continent,

We hereby proclaim the official formation of the African Democratic Alliance for Freedom and Progress (ADAFP).

Africa at a Crossroads

Africa stands at a historic crossroads. Facing deep institutional fragility, persistent inequality, and the urgent need for inclusive growth and accountable leadership, the continent demands a new political and economic horizon.

Today marks a turning point for democracy and governance in Africa. The African Democratic Alliance for Freedom and Progress (ADAFP) is established by dynamic political parties, elected officials, emerging leaders, and civic organizations united by a common vision: an Africa that is open, prosperous, democratic, and just.

This new pan-African platform represents a Third Way — one that harmonizes individual liberty and innovation (Liberalism) with social justice and equity (Progressivism).

ADAFP serves as both a catalyst for structured dialogue and a vehicle for collective action, shaping a stable, democratic, and resilient African future.

Objectives

• Strengthen Democracy: Promote free, fair, and transparent elections, protect human rights, and advance accountable, constitutional governance across the continent.
• Support Member Parties: Share best practices, strategic insights, and resources to enhance the electoral capacity and institutional strength of member organizations.
• Foster Solidarity: Build alliances to tackle shared challenges, including threats to democracy, electoral security, and civic participation.
• Advance Liberal and Progressive Values: Champion policies that promote equality, gender equity, environmental stewardship, social justice, and inclusive economic opportunity.
• Build a Unified African Voice: Position democratic, liberal, and progressive forces as key stakeholders in shaping Africa’s destiny and its role in the global order.
• Promote Peace, Security, and Democratic Stability: Support conflict prevention, peaceful political competition, electoral security, and democratic resilience, while opposing political violence, armed conflict, and unconstitutional disruptions of democratic order.

Principles

• Respect for Democratic Governance: ADAFP and its members uphold democracy, constitutionalism, and the rule of law—rejecting all unconstitutional changes of government and supporting peaceful transitions of power.
• Promotion of Human Rights and Social Justice: We defend the rights and freedoms of all citizens, actively opposing discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, religion, gender, or social background.
• Environmental Responsibility and Sustainable Development: We endorse policies promoting clean energy, climate resilience, and economic growth that benefits all citizens.
• Transparency and Accountability: We commit to integrity in governance and campaigns, ensuring public trust through openness and accountability.
• Economic Empowerment and Fair Trade: We support open markets, intra-African trade, and inclusive policies that empower people and foster continental self-reliance.
• Inclusion and Protection of Minorities: Democracy must ensure equal rights, representation, and protection for minorities and vulnerable groups, in line with constitutional guarantees and universal human rights.

A Pan-African Alliance for 21st Century Leadership

ADAFP will spearhead transformative action through:

• Promoting Integrity: Entrenching freedom, democracy, transparency, and judicial independence throughout Africa.
• Strengthening Agents of Change: Enhancing the operational capacity of political parties and movements that share a modern vision for Africa.
• Generating Inclusion: Supporting youth and women’s leadership through education, mentorship, and targeted financing.
• Federating Reforms: Building bridges among liberal and progressive actors to drive sustainable reforms within member states.
• Mobilizing International Solidarity: Partnering with global foundations, organizations, and donors committed to democratic and human development.
• Supporting the Implementation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Membership and Ethical Commitment

Membership in ADAFP is open to political parties, movements, and leaders that demonstrate adherence to democratic values and constitutional governance. All members shall:

• Subscribe to a Democratic Compliance and Ethics Charter.
• Commit to internal democracy, transparency, and gender inclusion.
• Be subject to review, sanction, or suspension in cases of democratic violations.

Modern and Transparent Governance

ADAFP shall be governed by a Governance Constitution that guarantees:

• Democratic leadership selection and rotation.
• Institutional independence and internal pluralism.
• Transparent financial management and independent annual audits.
• Clear decision-making processes and dispute resolution mechanisms.
• Commitments and Measurable Impact

ADAFP commits to:

• Defending democratic electoral outcomes and actively supporting peaceful, constitutional transfers of power across Africa.
• Maintaining zero tolerance for term limit manipulation, unconstitutional extensions of power, and any actions that undermine constitutional order.
• Strengthening the capacity of political parties, youth, and emerging leaders through structured training, mentorship, internships, and peer-learning platforms.
• Establishing clear, measurable targets and benchmarks to track progress in democratic governance, electoral integrity, and institutional reform.
• Monitoring democratic performance and speaking out decisively against democratic regression, repression, or rights violations regardless of political affiliation or country.

Call for Action and Unity

Africa deserves strong, credible, and responsible voices capable of defending the Rule of Law, promoting open and job-creating economies, and advancing sustainable development for all.

ADAFP issues a solemn call to action:

We invite political parties, civic movements, reformers, youth and women leaders, academics, and development partners to join this continental movement for transformation.

Together, let us build a modern, democratic, and prosperous Africa—an Africa of freedom, dignity, and opportunity for future generations.

Adopted in Casablanca, Kingdom of Morocco, on 13 February 2026, by the Founding General Assembly of the African Democratic Alliance for Freedom and Progress (ADAFP)