UN chief: Africa's lack of Security Council seat unjust and indefensible

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council, saying Africa’s lack of a permanent seat is unjust and indefensible. He stated the Council must be reformed to reflect 21st-century realities with permanent African representation. During the 2025 UN General Assembly, Kenyan President William Ruto renewed calls for Africa to be granted permanent representation, terming the continent's exclusion unacceptable. He said Africa deserves two permanent seats with full rights, including the veto, and two additional non-permanent seats. Ruto urged African leaders to unite behind the Common African Position, citing the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration. He is scheduled to deliver Kenya's main address at the 81st UNGA on Wednesday, having also held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.