UN: The UN Security Council began the process of selecting the UN’s next secretary-general, holding a first “straw poll” to gauge the seven candidates’ support for the high-profile global statesman role.
Four women and three men are so far in the running to succeed Antonio Guterres, who will complete his second five-year term on December 31, 2026.
They are Michelle Bachelet of Chile, Maria Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador, Rafael Grossi of Argentina, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica, Olara Otunnu of Uganda, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana, and Macky Sall of Senegal.
Although Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has arguably the best name recognition, observers believe that for now there is no clear favorite in the race that could last several months.
“It’s an important start to the process. It’s important (we) select the best candidate,” said Pakistan’s ambassador to the UN Asim Ahmad as he arrived for the gathering.
