The candidates include three contenders from South America and former Senegalese President Macky Sall, whose nomination has sparked debate across Africa. Sall was put forward by Évariste Ndayishimiye, the current Chair of the African Union, but analysts say his bid has struggled to secure broad regional backing.
Speaking to ChannelA Africa on Tuesday, West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network, Advocacy Officer, Austin Aigbe, said a lack of continental unity could weaken Africa’s chances of securing the position.
“Regional support is critical,” Aigbe noted, adding that successful bids for the UN’s top job have historically depended on strong backing from a candidate’s home region.
He pointed to the election of Kofi Annan as an example of how unified African support can influence the outcome. Annan, a former UN Secretary‑General from Ghana, benefited from coordinated backing across the continent.
However, Aigbe argued that divisions within Africa risk undermining similar efforts in the current race. He questioned Sall’s candidacy, citing political tensions during his presidency and a lack of endorsement from key regional blocs.
The UN Secretary‑General selection process traditionally reflects an informal system of regional rotation, although this is not codified. Many observers believe it could be Africa’s turn to lead the organisation, but this would require consensus among African states.
Aigbe stressed that without a single, widely supported candidate, Africa may struggle to compete effectively against other regions.
The debate has also raised questions about representation, including calls for the UN to appoint its first female Secretary‑General. Names such as Michelle Bachelet have been mentioned among the candidates.
–ChannelAfrica–
