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Tag: Commonwealth

  • BREAKING: Tinubu reacts as Ghana’s Botchwey emerges S-G of the Commonwealth

    BREAKING: Tinubu reacts as Ghana’s Botchwey emerges S-G of the Commonwealth

    President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, on her election as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports leaders of the 56 Commonwealth nations meeting in Apia, Samoa, on Friday elected Botchwey, a 61-year-old former lawmaker who has served as Ghana’s foreign minister for the last seven years, as the 7th Secretary-General.

    Botchwey is expected to assume office on April 1, 2025. She will be the second African to be elected secretary-general of the Commonwealth in its 75-year history, after Chief Emeka Anyaoku of Nigeria, who served in that position from July 1, 1990, to March 31, 2000. She had Nigerian backing for the top Commonwealth job.

    In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Tinubu believes that Botchwey’s extensive career in public administration, foreign affairs and regional development makes her a perfect fit for the job.

    The statement reads: “He trusts that Botchwey’s leadership experience will bring renewed energy to the Commonwealth’s efforts to advance meaningful economic and political partnerships that drive development and amplify the bloc’s voice in global affairs.

    “President Tinubu looks forward to working with the incoming Secretary-General to advance the Commonwealth’s vision of fostering peace, equity and prosperity for all member nations.

    “The President reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to championing a Commonwealth that prioritises strengthening intra-commonwealth trade, African exports, and a unified presence at the United Nations that supports an African bid for a permanent representation at the Security Council.

    “The President thanks the outgoing Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, for her years of leadership and wishes her the best in her future endeavours”.

  • Team Nigeria lands In Trinidad And Tobago for Commonwealth Youth Games

    Team Nigeria lands In Trinidad And Tobago for Commonwealth Youth Games

     

    Nigerian  Contingent has landed in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, to participate in the 7th Commonwealth Youth Games taking place from August 4 to 11, 2023.

    According to the secretary-general, Tunde Popoola, Nigeria will participate in four disciplines – Athletics, Cycling, Swimming and Para Athletics.

    He added that the 25- Nigerian team contingent is a force to be reckoned with, is made up of 15 exceptional athletes and is accompanied by 10 Team Contingent officials, coaches, and other team members.

    The athletes, ranging from sprinters to long-distance runners, swimmers, cyclists, and Para athletes, were all brimming with enthusiasm.

    They have been eager to showcase their talents on the international stage and make their country proud.

    As the team landed in Trinidad and Tobago, it was greeted with warm hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere.

    The Commonwealth Youth Games Village buzzed with energy as athletes from not less than 69 different nations, countries and territories came together, united by their passion for sports.

    The Nigerian contingent would be expected to quickly find their rhythm and settle in, ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead.

    Led by their skilled coaches, the Team left a trail of victories in their wake. The sprinters outran their competitors effortlessly, while the long-distance runners exhibited incredible stamina and perseverance. Every athlete gave their all, pushing their limits and setting new personal bests.

    In the swimming pool, the Nigerian swimmers would make waves of their own.

  • Commonwealth Observers outlines election infractions in its interim report

    Commonwealth Observers outlines election infractions in its interim report

    The Commonwealth Observation Mission in its interim report outlined perceived infractions during the presidential and National Assembly elections last Saturday.

    The mission in its observations indicated and dotted clear demarcations in the entire exercise.

    Read post interim election report below:

    “Our observers noted significant delays in the opening of polls in most of the polling units observed, which impacted on pre-poll procedures. In some instances, polling officials arrived late at their designated polling units, while in other instances, there were gaps observed in the timely supply and delivery of essential materials.

    Lack of Advance Voting

    “We noted that polling staff, security personnel and other essential workers deployed on Election Day were unable to vote and were therefore disenfranchised from the process.

    Role of polling staff and polling procedures

    “Polling staff conducted their duties transparently, although in some cases there were inconsistencies in applied procedures.

    “At some polling units, voters were encouraged to check their names on the Voter Register before they could join the queue to avoid being turned away for being at the wrong polling unit. This is commendable.

    Use of Technology

    “While the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) functioned satisfactorily in most polling units, our observers reported that the BVAS was faster on facial recognition than on detecting fingerprints of the voters during the accreditation process. The requirement to first try fingerprint recognition slowed down the process, as did issues of connectivity and training. There was general trust by officials, agents and voters in the integrity of the BVAS.

    Ballot papers

    “Several challenges were encountered with ballot papers. The Group has not been able to establish the full details regarding these issues, but will make more substantive comments in the final report, where necessary.

    Communication strategy of INEC

    INEC provided public assurances of its preparedness and readiness to conduct the elections as scheduled, including recruitment and training of polling staff, distribution of materials and other logistics, in advance of Election Day. While we commend the fact that INEC conducted press conferences at various intervals, we noted that INEC’s identification and measures to address various logistical challenges, which were experienced on Election Day, were not always communicated in real time.

    Voter turnout

    We observed that there was variation in voter turnout. We will explore this aspect further and provide an assessment in our final report.

    Participation and Inclusion

    It was encouraging to note that priority was accorded to pregnant and nursing mothers, persons with disabilities and elderly people. INEC is also to be commended for its efforts at fostering greater inclusion, especially for persons with disabilities, by providing assistive devices at polling units, including braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses.

    Role of party agents

    Party agents of political parties were present in many polling units. Party agents are an important element of the electoral process, but their behaviour as observed was not always positive.

    We witnessed a number of polling units with significant numbers of party agents, many of whom were not wearing INEC-accreditation badges.

    Security

    The Group observed the presence of security officials at most polling units. They were professional, unobtrusive, carried out their duties diligently, and respected the right of voters to cast their ballots.

    Secrecy of the ballot

    Some polling units observed were in open spaces while others were in tents and indoors, in public buildings. Therefore, the layout varied from polling unit to polling unit. For the most part, the secrecy of the ballot was assured, though we noted in some cases that the positioning of polling booths potentially compromised secrecy. In a number of polling stations, voters could have benefitted from more their vote on their ballot papers.

    Situation Rooms

    As Chairperson, I had the opportunity to visit several situation rooms on Election Day, including the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, the Gender and Election Watch Situation Room and the Inclusive Friends Data Center. Some of our observers also managed to visit other situation rooms, including YIAGA Africa and the CLEEN Foundation Situation Rooms. These initiatives should be encouraged, as they enhance transparency and provide a national perspective on key data emerging from the electoral process, especially on Election Day. This instils a degree of confidence in the electoral process.

    Close and Count

    Due to the late start, there were still long queues at some polling units at the time of the closing of the polls. However, it was observed that those who were in the queue at 2:30 pm when the polls closed, were allowed to vote.

    The close and count followed the due process for the most part, with a high degree of transparency.

    Though various polling units experienced significant delays in closing due to their late openings, we found that the management of closing and count procedures varied in consistency. One of the marked challenges we noted was the fact that, as voting hours were extended, the close and count had to take place in the dark in many cases. It was noted that, at some polling units, there was no proper lighting to facilitate counting at night. We note that lamps were not provided to polling staff to assist them in carrying out their crucial duties at this phase of the process.

    Results Management

    We observed that the results were not uploaded on the INEC Results Viewing (IReV) Portal in real time, as expected. We acknowledge the statement released by INEC in this regard.

    Conclusion
    As the results process continues, let me end by reiterating the desire that all Nigerians, especially the candidates who contested the elections, continue to uphold their pre-election commitment to peace. The Group strongly encourages all Nigerians to exercise patience to allow INEC and its staff across the country to conclude the results process effectively and peacefully.

    We wish to reiterate the assessment of the previous Commonwealth Observer Group in 2019, that electoral reform remains a continuous process, building on what has worked successfully, addressing shortcomings in an inclusive and transparent manner that is welcomed by all relevant interested parties to various aspects of the electoral process.

    We encourage INEC to conduct a thorough post-election review of the electoral process to draw constructive lessons from previous elections, and would also encourage consideration for the establishment of appropriate domestic mechanisms to take forward recommendations proposed by all citizen and international observer missions.

    The Commonwealth Observer Group will make relevant recommendations in its final report.

    Notwithstanding the shortcomings identified in these elections, Nigerians were largely accorded the right to vote. We trust that the final stages of collation and announcement of results will continue to be handled in a transparent, peaceful and credible manner.

    We congratulate all Nigerians for their determination, patience and resilience displayed throughout the electoral process. We call on all Nigerians to maintain the same commitment in the post-election period, especially as Nigeria prepares to return to the polls on 11 March for the gubernatorial elections.

  • Atiku’s Book Launch: Ex-Sec Gen of Commonwealth, Anyaoku politely turns down invite

    Atiku’s Book Launch: Ex-Sec Gen of Commonwealth, Anyaoku politely turns down invite

     

    …says I remain non-partisan

    Ex-Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku has politely turned down an invite to be guest speaker at the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku book presentation scheduled for Wednesday.

    TheNewsGuru.com, (TNG) reports this was disclosed in a statement issued and signed by the former scribe of the Commonwealth.

    Anyaoku clearly stated in his response to the invitation that he was not approached before his name was placed in the advert inviting him to be special guest of honour.

    Hear him:

    “My attention has been drawn to the announcement in This Day newspaper of
    26/9/22 that I would be a Special Guest of Honour at Atiku Abubakar’s book
    presentation scheduled for 28th September at Chida Hotels Events Centre in Abuja.

    “Given the understandable propensity to read political meanings in public associations at this time of competition by political parties in the context of 2023 national elections, | wish to unequivocally state that no body sought and
    obtained my agreement to be present at this particular book presentation.

    “I have accepted the unreserved apologies rendered to me by the organizers of
    the event, and wish to reiterate that I remain non-partisan in praying ‘that my country Nigeria will in 2023 elect people of proven competence and character whose sole mission will be to serve the national interests.

    #

  • Biden, UN chief, world leaders condole with UK over Queen’s death

    Biden, UN chief, world leaders condole with UK over Queen’s death

    World leaders, including the President of the United States of America (USA), have condoled the government and people of the United Kingdom (UK), and the Commonwealth over the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully at Balmoral Castle on Thursday after her doctors first expressed concerns over the state of her health and placed her on medical supervision.

    In a statement jointly signed, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden stated that “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was more than a monarch” and that “She defined an era”.

    President Biden and the First Lady went further to describe Queen Elizabeth II as a stateswoman of unmatched dignity and constancy who they said deepened the bedrock alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States.

    The statement reads in full: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was more than a monarch. She defined an era. In a world of constant change, she was a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her. An enduring admiration for Queen Elizabeth II united people across the Commonwealth. The seven decades of her history making reign bore witness to an age of unprecedented human advancement and the forward march of human dignity.

    “She was the first British monarch to whom people all around the world could feel a personal and immediate connection-whether they heard her on the radio as a young princess speaking to the children of the United Kingdom, or gathered around their televisions for her coronation, or watched her final Christmas speech or her Platinum Jubilee on their phones. And she, in turn, dedicated her whole life to their service.

    “Supported by her beloved Prince Philip for 73 years, Queen Elizabeth II led always with grace, an unwavering commitment to duty, and the incomparable power of her example. She endured the dangers and deprivations of a world war alongside the British people and rallied them during the devastation of a global pandemic to look to better days ahead. Through her dedication to her patronages and charities, she supported causes that uplifted people and expanded opportunity. By showing friendship and respect to newly independent nations around the world, she elevated the cause of liberty and fostered enduring bonds that helped strengthen the Commonwealth, which she loved so deeply, into a community to promote peace and shared values.

    “Queen Elizabeth II was a stateswoman of unmatched dignity and constancy who deepened the bedrock Alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States. She helped make our relationship special.

    “We first met the Queen in 1982, traveling to the UK as part of a Senate delegation. And we were honored that she extended her hospitality to us in June 2021 during our first overseas trip as President and First Lady, where she charmed us with her wit, moved us with her kindness, and generously shared with us her wisdom. All told, she met 14 American presidents. She helped Americans commemorate both the anniversary of the founding of Jamestown and the bicentennial of our independence. And she stood in solidarity with the United States during our darkest days after 9/11, when she poignantly reminded us that “Grief is the price we pay for love.”

    “In the years ahead, we look forward to continuing a close friendship with The King and The Queen Consort. Today, the thoughts and prayers of people all across the United States are with the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth in their grief. We send our deepest condolences to the Royal Family, who are not only mourning their Queen, but their dear mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world”.

    UN chief mourns Queen Elizabeth II

    Meanwhile, UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres on Thursday paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II for her unwavering, lifelong dedication to serving her people.

    Guterres in a statement said he was deeply saddened at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.

    Queen Elizabeth, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch and the nation’s figurehead for seven decades, died at the age of 96 in Balmoral, Scotland, the Buckingham Palace said on Thursday.

    “I extend my sincere condolences to her bereaved family, the Government and people of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the wider Commonwealth of Nations.

    “As the United Kingdom’s longest-lived and longest-reigning Head of State, Queen Elizabeth II was widely admired for her grace, dignity, and dedication around the world.

    “She was a reassuring presence throughout decades of sweeping change, including the decolonization of Africa and Asia and the evolution of the Commonwealth,’’ Guterres said.

    The UN chief said Queen Elizabeth II was a good friend of the United Nations, and visited the New York Headquarters twice, more than fifty years apart.

    According to him, she was deeply committed to many charitable and environmental causes and spoke movingly to delegates at the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow. “The world will long remember her devotion and leadership,’’ he added.

    Queen’s leadership of the Commonwealth is admirable – Kenya’s president-elect

    Similarly, President-elect of the Republic of Kenya, William Ruto has said Queen Elizabeth II’s leadership of the Commonwealth for the past seven decades is admirable.

    Ruto in a statement stated that the Queen steered the institution’s evolution into a forum for effective multilateral engagement whose potential to drive tremendous socioeconomic progress remains incontestable and redounds to the Queen’s historic legacy.

    The statement reads: “I have received news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II and I send condolences to the people of the United Kingdom. The queen’s leadership of the Commonwealth for the past seven decades is admirable.

    “She steered the institution’s evolution into a forum for effective multilateral engagement whose potential to drive tremendous socioeconomic progress remain incontestable and redounds to the Queen’s historic legacy.

    “We will miss the cordial ties she enjoyed with Kenya and may her memories continue to inspire us. We join the Commonwealth in mourning and offer our condolences to the Royal Family and the United Kingdom”.

    Here are some reactions below:

    INDIAN PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI

    “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as a stalwart of our times. She provided inspiring leadership to her nation and people. She personified dignity and decency in public life. Pained by her demise. My thoughts are with her family and people of UK in this sad hour.”

    SHEHBAZ SHARIF, PRIME MINISTER OF PAKISTAN

    “Deeply grieved at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Pakistan joins the UK & other Commonwealth nations in mourning her death. My heartfelt condolences to the royal family, people & government of the UK.”

    CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU

    “It was with the heaviest of hearts that we learned of the passing of Canada’s longest-reigning Sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was a constant presence in our lives – and her service to Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history.”

    GHANAIAN PRESIDENT NANA AKUFO-ADDO

    “The Ghanaian people have very fond memories of the two visits she made to Ghana during her reign, and, on both occasions, we remember the friendliness, elegance, style and sheer joy she brought to the performance of her duties.”

    NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER JACINDA ARDERN

    “I know that I speak for people across New Zealand in offering our deepest sympathy to members of the Royal Family at the passing of the Queen. To us she was a much admired and respected monarch, to them she was a mother and grandmother.”

    “The Queen was a much loved and admired monarch, whose record reign of 70 years is an absolute testament to her, and her commitment to us all. She was extraordinary.”

    AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER ANTHONY ALBANESE

    “With the passing of Queen Elizabeth the Second, an historic reign and a long life devoted to duty, family, faith and service has come to an end.”

    “Australian hearts go out to the people of the United Kingdom who mourn today, knowing they will feel they have lost part of what makes their nation whole.”

    “There is comfort to be found in Her Majesty’s own words: ‘Grief is the price we pay for love’.”

    JAMAICAN PRIME MINISTER ANDREW HOLNESS

    “It was with great and profound sadness, that I learnt of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch, whose reign spanned seven decades. We join our brothers and sisters in the Commonwealth in mourning her passing, and pray for the comfort of the members of her family, and the people of the United Kingdom, as they grieve the loss of their beloved Queen and matriarch, ”

    U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEAKER NANCY PELOSI

    “Today, Americans join the people of the United Kingdom in mourning the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Over her seven decades on the throne, Her Majesty was a pillar of leadership in the global arena and a devoted friend of freedom.

    U.S. SENATE REPUBLICAN LEADER MITCH MCCONNELL

    “For 70 long years, from the aftermath of World War II well into the 21st century, across 15 different Prime Ministers, through great triumphs and great challenges, the Queen’s steady leadership safeguarded the land she loved. Despite spending nearly three quarters of a century as one of the most famous and admired individuals on the planet, the Queen made sure her reign was never really about herself — not her fame, not her feelings, not her personal wants or needs. She guided venerable institutions through modern times using timeless virtues like duty, dignity, and sacrifice. She offered our contemporary world a living master class it needed badly.”

    FORMER U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP AND FORMER FIRST LADY MELANIA TRUMP

    “Queen Elizabeth’s historic and remarkable reign left a tremendous legacy of peace and prosperity for Great Britain. Her leadership and enduring diplomacy secured and advanced alliances with the United States and countries around the world.”

    FORMER U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

    “Michelle and I were lucky enough to come to know Her Majesty, and she meant a great deal to us.”

    “Time and again, we were struck by her warmth, the way she put people at ease, and how she brought her considerable humor and charm to moments of great pomp and circumstance.”

    FORMER U.S. PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH

    “Laura and I were honored to have known Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was a woman of great intellect, charm, and wit. Spending time at Buckingham Palace, and having tea with Her Majesty – and her Corgis – is among our fondest memories of the presidency. Queen Elizabeth ably led England through dark moments with her confidence in her people and her vision for a brighter tomorrow. Our world benefitted from her steady resolve, and we are grateful for her decades of service as sovereign. Americans in particular appreciate her strong and steadfast friendship.”

    FORMER U.S. PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON

    “My thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family and all the people Her Majesty inspired throughout her lifetime of service.”

    EUROPEAN COMMISSION PRESIDENT URSULA VON DER LEYEN

    “It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was the world’s longest serving Head of State and one of the most respected personalities worldwide. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the British people.”

    EUROPEAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT CHARLES MICHEL

    “Once called Elizabeth the Steadfast, she never failed to show us the importance of lasting values in a modern world with her service and commitment.

    IRISH PRIME MINISTER MICHEAL MARTIN

    “On behalf of the Government of Ireland, I would like to convey my deepest sympathy to the British people on the loss of their beloved monarch, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.”

    “Her State Visit to Ireland in 2011 marked a crucial step in the normalisation of relations with our nearest neighbour. That visit was a great success, largely because of the many gracious gestures and warm remarks made by the Queen.”

    DUTCH KING WILLEM-ALEXANDER

    “We remember Queen Elizabeth II with deep respect and great affection. Steadfast and wise, she dedicated her long life to serving the British people. We feel a strong bond with the United Kingdom and its royal family, and we share their sorrow at this time.”

    THE ROYAL HOUSE OF NORWAY
    “The Royal Family is deeply saddened to receive the news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has passed away.”

    KING CARL XVI GUSTAF OF SWEDEN

    “With sadness, my family and I have today received the news that my dear relative, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, has passed away.

    “The Queen served Her countries and the Commonwealth with an outstanding devotion and sense of duty. She has been a constant presence, not only in British society but internationally. In addition, she has always been a good friend to my family and a link to our shared family history.”

    GERMAN CHANCELLOR OLAF SCHOLZ

    “We mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II. She was a role model and inspiration for millions, also here in Germany. Her commitment to German-British reconciliation after the horrors of World War II will remain unforgotten. She will be missed, not least her wonderful humour.”

    ITALIAN PRIME MINISTER MARIO DRAGHI

    “Queen Elizabeth was a major player in world history over the last seventy years. She represented the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth with balance, wisdom, respect for institutions and democracy. She has been the most beloved symbol of her country and has garnered respect, affection and warm feelings everywhere. She ensured stability in times of crisis and kept the value of tradition alive in a society in constant and profound evolution.”

    FRENCH PRESIDENT EMMANUEL MACRON

    “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II embodied the British nation’s continuity and unity for over 70 years. I remember her as a friend of France, a kind-hearted queen who has left a lasting impression on her country and her century.”

    SPANISH PRIME MINISTER PEDRO SANCHEZ

    “My condolences to the entire Royal Family, the government and the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.”

    “A figure of global significance, witness and author of British and European history.”

    CZECH PRIME MINISTER PETR FIALA

    “I am deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II. Sending heartfelt and sincere condolences to the Royal family and the British people and the people of the Commonwealth.”

    POLISH PRESIDENT ANDRZEJ DUDA

    “My deepest condolences to the Royal Family and all the British people on passing of Her Majesty The Queen. For decades she has been an embodiment of everything that makes Britain truly Great. She will be missed and remembered in Poland and all over the world.”

    KAJA KALLAS, PRIME MINISTER OF ESTONIA

    “Her sense of service and dedication to public duty were unparalleled. It’s the end of an era but her legend will live on and inspire.”

    UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT VOLODYMYR ZELENSKIY

    “It is with deep sadness that we learned of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of the UA people, we extend sincere condolences to the @RoyalFamily, the entire United Kingdom and the Commonwealth over this irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”

    CHIEF MINISTER OF GIBRALTAR FABIAN PICARDO

    “The People of Gibraltar will mourn Her Majesty as a monarch who has reigned wisely and with incomparable dedication throughout the period of our post-war emergence as a part of the British family of nations.”

    “The People of Gibraltar and the Government proclaim their loyalty to the Crown of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and to His Majesty The King.”

    UNITED ARAB EMIRATES VICE PRESIDENT SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM

    “We join the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, a global icon who represented the finest qualities of her nation and people. Her incredible lifetime of service and duty to the United Kingdom is unparalleled in our modern world.”

    UAE’S PRESIDENT MOHAMED BIN ZAYED

    “Her Majesty was a close friend of the UAE and a beloved & respected leader whose long reign was characterised by dignity, compassion & a tireless commitment to serving her country.”

    ABDULLAH BIN AL HUSSEIN, KING OF JORDAN

    “Jordan mourns the passing of an iconic leader. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a beacon of wisdom and principled leadership for seven decades. She was a partner for Jordan and a dear family friend. We stand with the people and leadership of the UK at this difficult time.”

    IRAQI PRESIDENT BARHAM SALIH

    “I am deeply saddened by the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II. I extend profound condolences to the royal family and to the people of the United Kingdom. Queen Elizabeth will be remembered as a great icon of history who served with grace, dignity and fortitude.”

    HONDURAN FOREIGN MINISTER EDUARDO ENRIQUE REINA

    “Our sincere condolences to the people and government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II, a message of sympathy to her family.”

    ARGENTINE GOVERNMENT

    Expressed its “sorrow” at the death of Queen Elizabeth II and said that it “stood by the British people and her family in this moment of pain”.

    VENEZUELAN PRESIDENT NICOLAS MADURO

    “The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela mourns the passing of Queen Elizabeth II of England, British monarch. We express our condolences to the royal family, to the United Kingdom and to the British people. Peace to her Soul!”.

    ECUADORIAN PRESIDENT GUILLERMO LASSO

    “Distraught at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, whose long life and dedication to the service of her people go down in history as an exemplary reign.”

    PARAGUAYAN PRESIDENT MARIO ABDO BENÍTEZ

    “From the Republic of Paraguay, we convey our condolences to the Royal Family, the Government and the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who will always be remembered for her great vocation of service, ” said

    MEXICAN FOREIGN MINISTER MARCELO EBRARD

    “Our thoughts and condolences to the people and government of the United Kingdom.”

    COSTA RICA FOREIGN MINISTRY

    “Costa Rica expresses its heartfelt condolences to the British government and people as well as to the Commonwealth of Nations on the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”

    PANAMANIAN PRESIDENT LAURENTINO CORTIZO

    “I send heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family, the British people and the Commonwealth on the physical passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who honored Panama on a historic State Visit six decades ago. Peace to her soul.”

    EL SALVADOR PRESIDENT NAYIB BUKELE

    “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. My wife Gabriela and I extend our deepest sympathies to the British people and the Royal Family. Her Majesty’s legacy will always remain a touchstone for our shared values of empathy, solidarity and service.”

     

  • Commonwealth Games: Nigeria grabs gold, bronze in discus throw

    Commonwealth Games: Nigeria grabs gold, bronze in discus throw

    Nigeria’s Chioma Onyekwere has made history to become the first Nigerian woman to win the Commonwealth Games gold in the Discus Throw event.

    Onyekewere, 28, threw 61.70m in her fourth attempt to take the lead from British  Jade Lally who led from the start of the competition with her opening throw of 57.33m.

    The Nigerian who opened with 55.82m knew she needed more than the 58.19m she threw to win the African Championships gold last June in Mauritius.

    She responded without success in the second round with a 56.42m effort, fouled the third attempt before swinging the discus to a personal season’s best mark of 61.70m, her second best career mark after the 63.30m personal best she threw last year at the CVEATC, Chula Vista in California, USA.

    Team Nigeria made further history by producing two medallists in the Discus Throw event for the first time with reigning Nigerian champion, Obiageri Amaechi winning the bronze medal with her 56.99m fifth round effort.

    Onyekwere has now become the second Nigerian after Adewale Olukoju to win the Discus Throw title for Nigeria in the history of the championships.

    Olukoju threw 62.62m to win in Auckland in 1990.

     

  • Commonwealth: When the address is longer than the letter – By Owei Lakemfa

    Commonwealth: When the address is longer than the letter – By Owei Lakemfa

    In my part of the world, it is said that when the address on the  envelop is longer than the content of the letter, it means there is nothing substantial to say.  This  was the conclusion I arrived at when I read the Kigali communiqué of the Commonwealth Heads of Government conference which held from June 19-21, 2022. The 117-point communiqué was 10,248 words long on bland statements and endorsement of already endorsed programmes. For instance the conference meandered  around  the same Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs formally endorsed by world leaders at the United Nations in September 2015, that is about seven years ago. Its repetitive  position on Covid-19 covered at least five of the points.

    Labouring through the communiqué, I asked myself; did the African and other Third World leaders who populate the Commonwealth, wade through the document before endorsing it? Did their technocrats examine so long a communiqué before committing their countries? If they did, why was it not summarised into concrete, easily  digestible  points?

    I was not really surprised because the Headmaster of the Commonwealth is Britain, a country whose parliament is famous for long debates and whose current Prime Minister, the Honourable Boris Johnson is a master of circumlocution. Given the verbosity, I was tempted to ask whether Mr Johnson wrote the communiqué; but it did not contain the flowery nature of his often combative prose.

    The Commonwealth is primarily a club of former colonies repeatedly raped by Britain which has convinced its victims that it is now reborn and wants a common wealth for all  and a shared future. This is even as  it  refuses to repay,  even by means of token restitution,  the enormous resources it looted from the former colonies.  For instance, from India alone, between 1765 and 1938,   Britain looted over $45 trillion.

    Even if it refuses to pay compensation, at least it can return artefacts looted from the colonies. From the Nigerian city of Benin alone, the British stole over 10,000 pieces which they are still keeping. The British Museum alone, stores some 8 million artefacts looted from the  former colonies.

    To be sure, colonisation and the process of de-colonization were nightmares for the victims. The Pan Africanist, Franz Fanon began his  famous 1963 book ‘The Wretched Of The Earth’ with the truism that: “National liberation, national renaissance, the restoration of nationhood to the people, commonwealth: whatever may be the headings used or the new formulas introduced, decolonization is always a violent phenomenon.”

    However, British Prime Minister Johnson, who haven  buried his Kalfat, Turkish ancestry, and adopted that of his English great grandmother, Margaret Johnson, while claiming to be more English than the English, thinks the colonised ought to be grateful  that Britain colonised them.

    In his February 2, 2002 piece  in the ‘Spectator’ titled: “Africa is a mess, but we can’t blame colonialism.” Johnson argued that the best option for Africa, is to be recolonized. He argued  that Africa’s problems  cannot be blamed on “Britain, or colonialism, or the White man…The continent may be a blot, but it is not a blot upon our conscience.” After exonerating  the colonialists, Johnson wrote: “The problem is not that we (Colonialists) were once in charge, but that we are not in charge anymore.”

    In his speech at the Commonwealth, Johnson told the 54 countries gathered, a lie that they and  Britain  “are united by an invisible thread of shared values, history and friendship.” In truth, the thread of colonialism is  visible and the colonizer and the colonized could not historically, have had shared values and friendship.

    Charles, The Prince of Wales, who unlike Johnson, does not  strive to flaunt his Englishness, was more reflective and sober. In talking about the potentials of the Commonwealth, he said: “… to unlock the power of our common future, we must also acknowledge the wrongs which have shaped our past. Many of those wrongs belong to an earlier age with different – and, in some ways lesser – values.”

    He described the British colonization of Canada and the genocide against the indigenous peoples as “one of the darkest aspects of history.”

    Charles spoke to the heart of the Commonwealth when he  told the gathering: “It seems to me that there are lessons in this for our Commonwealth family.   For while we strive together for peace, prosperity and democracy I want to acknowledge that the roots of our contemporary association run deep into the most painful period of our history.  I cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow at the suffering of so many, as I continue to deepen my own understanding of slavery’s enduring impact. If we are to forge a common future that benefits all our citizens, we too must find new ways to acknowledge our past.  Quite simply, this is a conversation whose time has come.”

    Unlike Johnson who justifies  and romanticises  colonialism and presents it as the panacea for Africa’s problems, Prince Charles  acknowledges and  apologises  for the nightmare that was colonialism.  In comparison to Prince Charles, Johnson is a man who claims  to be more Catholic than the Pope.

    An intriguing aspect of this conference was the emergence of Rwanda’s Paul Kagame as the  new Chair. His country, like Mozambique which  had also joined the Commonwealth, was not a former British colony. Rwanda was colonised by the French and Mozambique by the Portuguese. But within thirteen years of joining the Commonwealth, Rwanda holds the Chair; Is this a strategy to draw in more countries that were colonised by other competitors?

    At the Kigali meet, two former French colonies, Gabon and Togo found their way to the venue as members. The Commonwealth’s claim that these countries were admitted based on its principles of good governance, human rights,  and democracy is  incorrect as neither upholds those principles. Togo for instance has since the former French legion Sergeant Gnassingbe Eyadema seized power in 1967 – with the baton, at his  death, passing on to his son, Faure Gnassingbe – been a brutal country that neither respects fundamental human rights nor democracy.

    President Kagame  said  Rwanda: “ a new member with no historical connection to the British Empire, expresses our choice to continue re-imagining the Commonwealth, for a changing world.”

    On the Russian-Ukrainian War, the conference made a little veiled  support for the latter as the: “Heads underscored the need to respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states.” They also reaffirmed their commitment to the neo-colonial and neo-liberal policies that has impoverished almost all members of the Commonwealth. In this, they reiterated: “the importance of maintaining transparent, inclusive, fair and open agricultural markets and trade.”

    At the end, the Commonwealth leaders came to Kigali, talked and returned home, perhaps to wait for the next gathering.

  • Buhari salutes Queen Elizabeth II on Platinum Jubilee

    Buhari salutes Queen Elizabeth II on Platinum Jubilee

    President Muhammadu Buhari has extended warm wishes and congratulations, and that of Nigerians, to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee as the British monarchy.

    In a congratulatory message issued by his media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, on Thursday in Abuja, the president rejoiced with the Queen as she marks her 70th year on the throne and Head of the Commonwealth of Nations.

    Nigeria is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.

    According to the president, Queen Elizabeth II is the first British monarch to reach seven decades on the throne.

    In the message, Buhari said that Queen Elizabeth 11 had chalked a number of milestones including “the fact of being the youngest ever on the throne, handling her role with confidence and grace and now, the one who has served the longest.”

    He expressed his admiration for the Queen as a loyal, patriotic, and compassionate leader who worked for the people, not as a ruler but as a friend and compatriot.

    “People never lose trust in Queen Elizabeth 11. Their firm belief is that she always has the potential to deliver, especially during troubled times.

    ”It is confirmation of the fact that Queen Elizabeth always acts and delivers according to people’s expectations.

    “In her lonely journey on the throne, and so recently having lost her husband and principal supporter Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, I and all our citizens wish her many more years as Queen of England and Head of the Commonwealth, in excellent condition of health”.

  • We can make the Commonwealth a real global power – Muhammadu Buhari

    We can make the Commonwealth a real global power – Muhammadu Buhari

    WE CAN MAKE THE COMMONWEALTH A REAL GLOBAL POWER

    Why should our 54 countries not lend weight to each other in international bodies, compounding our influence as the EU does?

    What becomes of the Commonwealth should one of its 15 members that is not a republic join those 39 others which are? With Jamaica considering such a move, this question is being asked. But it is misplaced: the modern Commonwealth was constituted in 1949 specifically to accommodate a republic – newly independent India – precisely after such constitutional change.

    Still, it is right to debate the Commonwealth’s future. Though perfectly sustainable in its current form, it would be a disservice to its members should current levels of co-operation be the limit of our aspirations.

    For a start, we should strive to reduce trade barriers, given the unity nearly all of us hold through the English language, jurisprudence and education systems. We might explore grouping more readily together at intergovernmental forums such as the United Nations to deliver outcomes for one member individually or all collectively. We should work closer on defence interoperability and mutual support in the fight against global terrorism – now centred on Africa, and which threatens new waves of refugees into the West.

    Some will point to factors such as Commonwealth countries’ membership of regional trade blocs, UN ballots with members voting in opposite ways and a lack of military compatibility as proof that closer cooperation cannot be achieved. It is possible to prove these people wrong – but only if we attempt to do so.

    The forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) this June should be a moment when the potential for our club is reimagined. This bi-annual senior decision-making body is being hosted by Rwanda: a republic no less, and prescient, when the largest contingent of Commonwealth countries is African.

    Not far from the official agenda will be the question of how Brexit will continue to affect us all.

    Already the U.K. Global Tariff (UKGT) has reduced, removed or simplified tax on thousands of imported goods, which is an important step in reconfiguring Commonwealth trade. When the club’s largest economy was unable to practice the free trade it long preached, others had little incentive to lower barriers. Association within their own trade blocs is not prohibitive. There is still much more that members can do inside their respective frameworks.

    A number of the Commonwealth’s African members have now signed product-based trade agreements with the UK. But a potential deal with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), set to become the world’s largest free trade area, heralds the greatest opportunity.

    The UK signed the world’s first memorandum of understanding with the nascent bloc last year, with a future deal securing free trade simultaneously with nineteen African Commonwealth members, collectively representing the majority of Africa’s GDP. It would likely presage further agreements between AfCFTA and other members, further opening intra-Commonwealth trade.

    With trade could come greater defence cooperation. African Commonwealth members are active in many theatres across the continent, whether battling ISIS-affiliated militants across the Sahel region in the West, the Horn of Africa in the East, or Mozambique in the South. Arms and defensive equipment are part of the solution.

    There is no reason why one of the world’s foremost military manufacturers should not sell more widely to our association when it is a group of allies. When Britain does not, they must look elsewhere. Today we have a mosaic of incompatible systems. But particularly in Africa, where members find themselves on the same missions, interoperability would make a material impact on the ground.

    And in diplomacy, when trade and defence ties are drawn closer, so too do geopolitical interests. The EU’s 27 members tend to have each other’s backs in, for instance, UN votes. Why should the 54 Commonwealth partners not similarly organise, lending weight to each other in such bodies and wielding more influence?

    At CHOGM, these new opportunities can be grasped. What holds us back is only the limit of our ambition. For those who say this cannot be done, I say we will never know until we try.

    Muhammadu Buhari is President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

  • #TwitterBan: We are monitoring closely repression in Nigeria – Commonwealth

    #TwitterBan: We are monitoring closely repression in Nigeria – Commonwealth

    The Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC has stated that the Commonwealth is “closely monitoring developments around the suspension of Twitter, and allegations of repression of the rights to freedom of expression, access to information, media freedom, as well as disregard for the rule of law in Nigeria.”

    Ms. Scotland said: “All Commonwealth member countries, including Nigeria, have obligations and commitments to uphold freedom of expression as one of the core values and principles of the Commonwealth Charter. This underscores a commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other relevant human rights covenants and international instruments.”

    The statement by the Commonwealth followed an Urgent Appeal by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urging Ms. Scotland to “apply the Commonwealth Charter to hold the Nigerian government to account over the unlawful suspension of Twitter in Nigeria, and the resulting repression of freedom of expression, access to information and media freedom.”

    This development was disclosed on Sunday (today) by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare.

    In the Urgent Appeal, SERAP had stated that: “The Nigerian government has repeatedly demonstrated that it is not committed to protecting human rights. The Commonwealth should take a clear stand to ensure accountability of institutions, freedom of expression, access to information, and media freedom in Nigeria.”

    Responding, Ms Scotland in a letter sent to SERAP, said: “I write to acknowledge with thanks, receipt of your letter dated 5 June 2021 highlighting concerns about the suspension of Twitter in Nigeria.”

    The letter by the Commonwealth dated 22 July 2021, and signed on behalf of Ms Scotland by Roger Koranteng, Officer in Charge, Governance and Peace Directorate, read in part: “The Commonwealth Secretary-General has been following the developments in Nigeria very closely and she is engaging the relevant stakeholders.”

    “Please be assured that the Secretariat will remain engaged with the authorities in Nigeria and encourage a speedy resolution of this matter.”

    “All Commonwealth member countries [including Nigeria] have committed themselves to uphold freedom of expression as one of the core values and principles of the Commonwealth Charter, which underscores a commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other relevant human rights covenants and international instruments.”

    Kolawole Oluwadare said: “We are very delighted that our letter and the concerns that it raises have caught the attention of the Commonwealth Secretary-General. Given her public record for justice and human rights, we have absolutely no doubt that she will prevail on the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to lift the unlawful suspension of Twitter, respect human rights, and obey the rule of law.”

    “But it should never have reached this level, as the government has absolutely no justification to suspend Twitter in Nigeria. The Buhari administration ought to have complied with the Commonwealth Charter and other similar human rights standards as a matter of routine.”

    SERAP’s Urgent Appeal dated 5 June 2021, read in part: “Ms. Scotland should urgently consider recommending the suspension of Nigeria from the Commonwealth to the Heads of Government, the Commonwealth Chair-in-office, and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as Head of the Commonwealth to push the government to take concrete measures to respect and promote the Commonwealth’s values of human rights, transparency, accountability and the rule of law.”

    “Nigerians can only freely participate in the democratic processes and shape the society in which they live if these fundamental human rights are fully and effectively-respected, protected and promoted.”

    “The suspension has the character of collective punishment and is antithetical to the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international obligations. Nigerian authorities would seem to be suppressing people’s access to Twitter to exploit the shutdown to cover up allegations of corruption, abuses, and restrict freedom of expression and other fundamental rights.”

    “The Nigerian government has also called for the prosecution of those who violate its order suspending Twitter operations in Nigeria. This order for the prosecution of Twitter users violates the legal rule that there should be no punishment without law.”

    “Respect for Commonwealth values is essential for citizens to trust Commonwealth institutions. The Commonwealth ought to take a strong stand for the protection of human rights, transparency, and the rule of law in Nigeria, principles which are fundamental to the Commonwealth’s integrity, functioning, and effectiveness of its institutions.”

    “The suspension of Twitter in Nigeria demonstrates the authorities’ determination to suppress all forms of peaceful dissent by the Nigerian people. There are well-founded fears that the human rights situation in Nigeria will deteriorate even further if urgent action is not taken to address it.”

    “According to our information, the Nigerian government on Friday 4 June 2021 unlawfully ordered all internet service providers to suspend Twitter in Nigeria. The suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria followed the deletion of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tweets, which according to Twitter ‘violated the Twitter Rules.’”

    “The suspension of Twitter in Nigeria is taking place against the background of repression of the civic space and harassment of media houses, and journalists who are targeted simply for performing their professional duty.”

    “The suspension of Twitter has seriously undermined transparency and accountability in government. The lack of transparency undermines the rule of law and Nigerians’ ability to participate in their own government.”

    “Lack of transparency and accountability, and the absence of the rule of law in Nigeria have contributed hugely to denying Nigerians their fundamental human rights. People have been targeted simply for using Twitter and peacefully exercising their fundamental human rights.”