Kofi Annan chairs Mandela group as Tutu steps down

Mr. Kofi Annan has been named Chair of The Elders, an independent group of global leaders founded by South Africa’s Nelson Mandela.

Mr Annan, the former UN Secretary General takes over from Archbishop Desmond Tutu who stepped down as Chair of the group after six years.

Mr Annan’s deputy will be Norway’s first woman Prime Minister, Gro Harlem Brundtland.

“I am honoured and privileged to have been chosen by my fellow Elders to succeed Desmond Tutu as Chair of such a distinguished set of individuals. I am also very grateful that Gro Harlem Brundtland – with whom I’ve worked closely at the UN – has accepted to join me as Deputy Chair,” Mr Annan said.

Commenting on Mr. Annan’s appointment, Desmond Tutu said “Kofi is a brave, humble and dedicated leader. I have no doubt that he will steer this group to new heights. And with Gro as his deputy, there will truly be no stopping us!”

By Ekow Quandzie