A Nigerian senator, Ned Nwoko from Delta State, has endorsed Gambia’s foreign minister, Dr. Mamadou Tangara, as the ideal candidate to lead the Commonwealth in a new era.
Following a meeting with Dr. Tangara, Senator Nwoko praised his focus on reparative justice for Africa, global peace, human rights, climate action, and digital inclusion. Nwoko, who chairs the Senate Committee on Reparation & Repatriation, believes that Tangara’s vision aligns closely with his own advocacy for reparative justice and that Tangara’s leadership could help the Commonwealth address these significant issues.
Dr. Tangara is competing with two other candidates from Ghana and Lesotho for the role of Commonwealth Secretary-General. Nwoko emphasized Tangara’s experience and deep understanding of global challenges, particularly his commitment to Africa’s progress, as reasons he stands out as the best candidate for the position.
On September 11, 2024, Tangara took part in a debate at Chatham House in London, where he highlighted the need for the Commonwealth to engage in discussions around reparations for slavery and colonialism. Nwoko was particularly impressed with Tangara’s stance on these issues and believes that his leadership could push the Commonwealth toward a more active role in reparative justice.
The next Commonwealth Secretary-General will be elected at the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, scheduled to take place in Apia, Samoa, from October 21 to 26, 2024.
