By irene mwende
Pan-African climate justice alliance has declined the invitation to meet with the COP28 president Designate Dr.Sultan Ahmed Al- jaber because of his old ties who is currently in the country where he intends to engage with civil society to amplify the voices of youth and indigenous communities in preparation for COP28
The PACJA organisation has stated that Dr.Al Jaber’s position as the chief executive officer of Abu Dhabi National oil company (ADNOC) poses a serious conflict of interest and debilitates his credibility as a leader of global climate negotiate
The organisation stated that it had previously called on Dr. Al Jaber to step down from his position as president Designate of COP 28
The organisation highlighted several reasons why Dr Al Jaber should step down since as the CEO of oil company that represents the interest of the fossil industry that is the main driver of the climate crisis and is unacceptable Dr.Al Jaber to hold such position
The organisation further noted that Al Jaber’s involvement in the cop process will raise serious questions about intergrity and legitimacy of the UNFCC as he will use his position to influence the outcomes of the negotiations on favour of the oil and gas sector therefore will undermine the efforts of developing countries
In conclusion pan African climate justice Alliance organisation reiterated that their invitation from Dr.Al Jaber as it appears to be a public relations stunt to improve his image and credibility as the Cop president and they urged Dr Al Jaber to step down from COP 28 presidency.