<p>Mahamat "strongly condemns the murder of George Floyd that occurred in the United States of America at the hands of law enforcement officers and wishes to extend his deepest condolences to his family and loved ones," the statement added. "He further urges the authorities in the United States of America to intensify their efforts to ensure the total elimination of all forms of discrimination based on race or ethnic origin." </p><p><div class="preroll-video"></div><ora-player></ora-player></p><p>The AU's deputy chairperson<strong> Thomas Kwesi Quartey</strong> also decried Floyd's death on his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/quartey.kwesi.3" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>, writing: "The African Union is distressed to witness yet another unwarranted execution of another African-American male—George Floyd for no other reason than BEING BLACK. This is one too many." He demanded a full investigation into the killing.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-twitter_embed">
</p><p>Following his statement several US embassies on the continent—in what is being called a "rare" move—have also released statements condemning the killing. Including embassies in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Social media has been ablaze with Black people across the world expressing anger and exasperation at the disregard shown for Black life. <br></p><p><div class="dfp_atf-slot" data-not-loaded="true"></div><script type="text/javascript">
checkdfpScripts();
</script></p><p>The killing of 46-year-old Floyd by Officer Derek Chauvin has sparked protests and demonstrations across the US and in major cities globally including London, Toronto and Berlin. </p><p>Floyd was killed after Chauvin held his knee over his neck for over 8 minutes. Harrowing video footage showed Floyd pleading for his life and stating that he couldn't breathe before he died. The officer was <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/29/us/minneapolis-george-floyd-friday/index.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twCNN&utm_term=image&utm_content=2020-05-29T18%3A28%3A16" target="_blank">arrested on Friday</a>, according to <em>CNN</em>, and faces charges of third-degree murder and manslaughter. </p>
Keep reading...
Show less
