Leaders may not come for opening

Already in the dock for the mismanagement of Commonwealth Games preparations, here is another dampener for the Games’ Organising Committee (OC).

Already in the dock for the mismanagement of Commonwealth Games preparations, here is another dampener for the Games’ Organising Committee (OC).

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Of the 54 countries that are members of the Common-wealth, just about half-a-dozen premiers or head of states or governments are likely to represent their country in the opening ceremony. This is in sharp contrast to the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games where about two-dozen leaders attended the gala event.

OC sources said that earlier they were expecting about 30 head of states and senior dignitaries during the Games. “As of now, we have confirmation that besides Prince Charles who would be representing Queen Elizabeth II, the Head of Commonwealth, premier/head of state from six countries are likely to come,” said a source.

It is also for the first time in 44 years since the games were held in Kingston, Jamaica in 1966, the Queen would not attend any part of the event.

Senior OC officials, however, said that they are hopeful that high commissioners or a senior dignitary from majority of the member countries would come for the opening ceremony.