Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Climate activists have taken to social media to denounce the appointment of COP28 president and head of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, Sultan al-Jaber, ahead of an upcoming meeting in Dubai later in the year. This comes after several concerns were raised regarding the suitability of al-Jaber for this critical role in addressing climate change.
Climate change continues to pose a significant threat to the planet’s ecosystems, and experts have pointed out the importance of having the right leadership in place to help drive the change needed to mitigate its impact. This is why activists have been vocal about their opposition to the appointment of a person they perceive as part of the problem.
According to one activist, “Appointing someone with deep roots in the fossil fuel industry to lead a climate change conference is like appointing a fox to guard the henhouse. It sends a signal that the conference is more about big business than it is about saving the planet.”
It is worth noting that the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company is one of the world’s largest oil producers, and al-Jaber’s appointment has been viewed by many as a clear conflict of interest. Activists have called for a more transparent selection process for key positions like this to ensure that people with vested interests do not hold critical roles in addressing climate change.
In response to the controversy, al-Jaber stated, “I am committed to leading a COP28 conference that is inclusive and diverse in its approach. My goal is to ensure that all voices are heard, and we work together to find sustainable solutions to the global climate crisis.”
While the push for diverse representation is critical, some activists argue that this is not enough. They believe that having individuals with direct ties to the fossil fuel industry in leadership positions may hinder progress towards combating climate change.
At a time when the world is grappling with the adverse effects of climate change, it is crucial to have competent leadership in place. The COP28 conference is expected to be a crucial platform for various stakeholders to come together and discuss strategies for mitigating the impact of climate change. Therefore, it is essential that the selection process for key roles is transparent, and competent individuals who have the planet’s best interest at heart are appointed.
