Mubita Nawa, Zambia’s Deputy Commissioner of Police and the African Union’s endorsed candidate for Interpol Secretary-General, visited Egypt on June 10th to garner support for his campaign.
Nawa’s candidacy was endorsed by the African Union in February, making him the first African candidate for the position in Interpol’s 100-year history. He is vying for the top spot alongside candidates from the UK, Pakistan, and Brazil.
Zambia’s Ambassador Lazarous Kapambwe led Nawa’s campaign team, meeting with high-level Egyptian officials including the Assistant Minister of Public Security and the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for African Affairs. Ambassador Kapambwe emphasized the significance of Nawa’s candidacy, noting it’s an opportunity for Africa to have a seat at the decision-making table of Interpol.
Nawa, a veteran law enforcement officer with experience in the UN and regional security organizations, shared his vision for a “strong and resilient Interpol united against crime.” He stressed the need for structural reforms to modernize the organization and ensure it better serves its member nations.
Egyptian officials pledged their support for Nawa’s candidacy, aligning themselves with the African Union’s position. They acknowledged the importance of Africa having a strategic voice in shaping Interpol’s agenda.
The election for Interpol Secretary-General will be held in November 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland.
