BY THEMBA ZWANE
EZULWINI- The Organisation of the African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Group Meeting have agreed to address the issue of xenophobia attacks as part of their deliberations agenda.
Sierra Leone, leader of the House of Assembly Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyijha, called for the inclusion of xenophobia ahead of the adoption of agenda [ACP/23/001/26] Rev.2 at the meeting chaired by Hon. David Houinsa of the Republic of Benini at Ezulwini Palazzo, International Convention Centre (ICC) on May 11, 2026.
“Let us include this as an agenda item. If we are unable to adopt the resolution in its current form, then let us at least have an open debate to help shape the trajectory for addressing the issue of xenophobia. We have already heard from political leaders from South Africa, but it is equally important that we hear different perspectives from across the African regions and from other African countries as well,” submitted Sierra Leone Parliamentarian.
Convene Open Debate
He added that his submission, therefore, was that they convene an open debate on the issue of xenophobia so that member states may engage constructively and collectively on this matter and that was his proposed amendment.
Meanwhile, the chairperson, first thanked His Majesty King Mswati III and Eswatini for playing host to the meeting. He extended a warm welcome to the Secretary General, His Excellency, Moussa Batraki.
“It is the first opportunity that he has to participate in person during our plenary session since he took office. I have to congratulate him for the remarkable leadership that he has proven, leadership that is visionary and reform-oriented. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with you. Your Excellency, we thank you for taking the time, despite your busy schedule, to be with us today. We look forward to hearing from you,” he said.
Future Direction Of Institution
The chairperson then welcomed all the honorable members of the National Assembly, the Senate, and the Parliamentary Assembly. He said their presence and participation will undoubtedly enrich their deliberations and help to strengthen the work and role of the future direction of the institution.
Houinsa took the opportunity to welcome the new members of the African region who were joining effectively the work and the delivery of the country and the regional community.
“I would like to remind you that the number of participants have held on the English-speaking members, but there is no interpretation into Spanish, but there is interpretation from Spanish. The seating plan is changed for each meeting to ensure that the delegates not only sit at the same table. Finally, allow me to thank the Secretary-General and his team for all the documentation prepared for this meeting, in particular the technical background notes which provide insight into the policy direction of the issues to be considered during the joint meetings.”
Legislative Processes
He mentioned that they had a total of five background documents designed to facilitate their activities and the guide for members. The guide for members outlined all the work to be carried out as well as the legislative processes including voting procedures which were clearly explained therein.
“You may also have received an annotated agenda which informs delegates of what is expected under each agenda item. I therefore encourage all members to familiarise themselves with these documents. Now, I will make some announcements by way of reminder,” he said.
First and foremost, regarding receptions and dinners, the legislator said he wished to inform the honourable members that a dinner hosted by the host country (Kingdom of Eswatini) will take place later on the day at 7pm. A second reception hosted by the EU will take place on the 13th May at the International Conference Centre.
Reserved For Heads Of Delegations
He urged member states to note that this particular reception was reserved for heads of delegations only. The Secretariat had circulated a number of forms. One, the chairperson said because there is respect with the evidence, that was key to prepare in preparation for an upcoming meeting to be organised by the secretary general and his administration.
Then he said it was time to fill a field visit form. He indicated that the field visit was scheduled for Wednesday from 7am. to 10am.
“You are kindly invited to register during the course of the day. Feel free to choose the visit that interests you, dear colleagues,” he said.
He then drew MPs attention to the agenda which he said they had received each one of them. He said they will therefore adopt the agenda.
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