The Secretariat of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States

ACP PRESS RELEASE: 26 January 2010 – Parliamentarians attending the 19th Session of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Assembly paid tribute to the outgoing Secretary-General, Sir John Kaputin, for his outstanding services to the organization.

In his final address to the ACP Assembly, Sir John commended the efforts of the MPs in promoting good governance, and highlighting ACP issues with their European counterparts.

The President of the ACP Assembly and the Co-President of JPA, Hon. Charles Milupi, described Sir John as a ‘selfless person’ who served the JPA and the ACP Secretariat with dignity.

Equally, Hon. Joseph Mugambe of Uganda noted that the outgoing Secretary-General, Sir John Kaputin, will be known for his calmness and composure during ACP meetings.

Similarly, Assarid Ag. Imbarcaouane of Mali who worked with Sir John when he was the Co-President of the JPA recalled that he (Sir John) ensured that unity and coherence was maintained during a difficult period for ACP Members of the JPA.

Hon. Cyprien Awudu Mbaya of Cameroon said that Sir John will be remembered during his time at the ACP Secretariat for his contribution towards the establishment of the ACP Assembly, which he described as a wonderful achievement.

Many other MPs who spoke at the Assembly also praised Sir John for his leadership during his five-year term at the ACP Secretariat.

Sir John and the members of his management team will leave the Secretariat following the completion of their terms of office on February 28, 2010.

He called on the ACP Assembly to continue to show support to the new Secretary-General.