By John Ikani
The global spotlight is firmly fixed on London as the world eagerly anticipates the upcoming coronation of King Charles, scheduled for this Saturday.
Numerous heads of state from across Africa have already arrived in the UK to witness the grand occasion, with several dignitaries representing Commonwealth countries in attendance.
Notably among the African delegates are Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, King Mswati III of Eswatini, Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi, Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, and Liberia’s George Weah.
However, what has piqued interest is the attendance of Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is the first leader of his country to visit London in over two decades, a result of the UK’s imposition of sanctions on Zimbabwe.
Mnangagwa expressed his excitement at receiving an invitation to attend the royal event, despite criticism from some British lawmakers, who have raised concerns about alleged human rights violations in Zimbabwe.
While the attendance of most African leaders is confirmed, Kenyan President William Ruto has yet to confirm his attendance at the ceremony.
President Ruto recently raised concerns about the mistreatment of African leaders during foreign trips, citing an incident where African presidents were bussed to attend Queen Elizabeth’s funeral ceremony in the UK.
In attendance from French-speaking African countries is Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum, while Côte d’Ivoire’s President Alassane Ouattara will be represented by his deputy, Tiémoko Meyliet Koné.
Cameroon’s Prime Minister, Joseph Dion Ngute, will also represent President Paul Biya at the event. Notably, Cameroon is a former colony of both Britain and France.
