PACJA has questioned the suitability of COP28 President Designate as they decline his invitation to a meeting

Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) has declined the invitation to meet with the COP28 President Designate Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber in Nairobi citing his oil ties. The alliance observes that Al Jaber’s interests undermine his credibility as a leader of global climate negotiations that have hit the global stage.

“We have previously called on Dr Al-Jaber to step down from his position as President Designate of COP28. We reiterate this call for the following reasons. As the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and the Group CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), we believe he represents the interests of the fossil fuel industry, which is the main driver of the climate crisis, “observed the Pan African Climate Alliance.

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The group adds that His involvement in the COP process raises serious questions about the integrity and legitimacy of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), adding that Al Jaber will use his position to influence the outcomes of the negotiations in favor of the oil and gas sector, and undermine the efforts of developing countries and civil society to push for more ambitious and equitable climate action.

The African climate change summit is currently underway in Nairobi, bringing on board global leaders in the energy sector to discuss sustainable energy avenues across the continent.

“His invitation to meet with us in Nairobi appears to be a public relations stunt to improve his image and credibility as the COP president. We do not wish to be used as a token of your engagement with civil society, while you continue to pursue policies and projects that are detrimental to the environment and human rights, “added the group, further calling for the resignation of Al Jaber.

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Pan African Climate Justice Alliance is a consortium of more than 1000 organizations from 51 African countries that brings together a diverse membership drawn from Grassroots, Community-based organizations, Faith-based Organizations, Non-Governmental organizations, Trusts, Foundations, Indigenous Communities, Farmers and Pastoralist Groups with a shared vision to advance a people-centered, right-based, just and inclusive approach to address climate and environmental challenges facing humanity and the planet.