UK News
Former PM Tony Blair takes up position as Rwanda adviser
By Rich Bowden, M&C Staff Writer Jan 18, 2008, 10:28 GMT
A handout photograph supplied by the Palestinian Authority on 09 January 2008 shows Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (R) meeting with Tony Blair, the special Middle East envoy of the Quartet, as he visits Abbas\' Ramallah, West Bank headquarters a day before US President George Bush is due to meet Abbas in Ramallah. EPA/OMAR RASHIDI
(M&C) - Former Prime Minister Tony Blair is to take up an unpaid advisory position with the government of Rwanda.
The Guardian reports Mr Blair has sent a team of ex-Downing Street consultants to Rwanda to hammer out how Mr Blair can assist the Rwandan government of President Kagame.
The team consists of Liz Lloyd, his former deputy chief of staff at No 10 and an Africa specialist, his former Number 10 private secretary Kate Gross and David Easton, a former McKinsey's consultant.
The newspaper reports that Mr Blair is impressed with the way the tiny country has transformed itself following the horror of the 1994 genocide and believes he can assist by raising funds for the country.
Mr Blair and his wife Cherie visited Rwanda in 2005 where he visited war graves and attended court hearings held to try the instigators of the genocide.
COMMENT
blog comments powered by DisqusLatest Headlines in UK
- 1. Cambridge beat Oxford in 158th Boat Race after midway halt
- 2. Gas flare at Total's North Sea platform self-extinguishes
- 3. A myth turns 100: Titanic still fascinates world
- 4. Source of North Sea platform gas leak located, says Total
- 5. Efforts under way to stop gas leak on North Sea platform
Older Talkback
page: 1
page: 1
daniel MakokeraFeb 23rd, 2008 - 18:14:33
I think the news is good. here is a man that spent years in leadership of a country that is a world leader in world affairs,who better to help Rwanda's 14 year old democracy.
His clout will sure help in putting Rwanda on the map.
I read that some might not be happy about this move. why?
Rather he share his exprience than be looking at staying in power till one drops dead.
Africa can learn a thing or two from leaders like Mr blair....and President Kagame stands apart many if only by realising that he needs help from an old colleague.....the move says volumes about his transparent style of leadrship.
Report this comment