25 Nov 2015

President Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama is in Malta to attend the sixth Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) before proceeding to Paris, France, on Sunday for the Convention on Climate Change (COP21).

President Khama, who is accompanied by senior government officials, is among other 53 leaders of the Commonwealth family of nations who will deliberate on a number of issues that include good governance, human rights, climate change, democracy, free trade and world peace. He is expected back home on December 1.

Meanwhile, CHOGM, which starts tomorrow, ends on November 30.

One critical issue that the meeting will discuss is the current migration crisis relative to international human rights and refugee law.

Many people are reportedly compelled to migrate for a number of reasons, including escaping crushing deprivation or seeking economic opportunities and better living.

It is reported that a significant number of them migrate against their will, fleeing conflict or escaping persecution, while others leave behind devastation of natural disaster or are victims of trafficking.

On the other hand, CHOGM is taking place in Malta, an island that sits at the centre of the refugee crisis in Europe.

As a result, leaders are expected to issue a joint statement outlining their position on migration and the way forward for member states. 

The Commonwealth meeting will also hear views of member states via youth, women, civil societies and business forums. 

Also on the CHOGM agenda is the election of the new secretary general, with Botswana endorsing Ms Mmasekgoa Masire-Mwamba for the position.

Commonwealth secretary general, Mr Kamalesh Sharma will be stepping down after serving in the position since 2008.

Ms Masire-Mwamba has served two terms as deputy secretary-general of the Commonwealth secretariat from 2008-2014. She was responsible for the oversight of the political, human rights, legal and youth portfolio of the secretariat’s work. Ends