Update

It’s official, Indian-born Shashi Tharoor has stepped out as India’s official candidate. He made his announcement June 20th in New Delhi. An Indian with Tharoor’s credentials makes a very interesting candidate: He is 50 years old, worked 28 years for the UN, and places a priority on management reforms. However, his great strength—being Indian (with India’s diplomatic clout) could also be his biggest drawback. It also raises questions about India’s aspirations to become a Perm 5 member on the Security Council. Could this be telegraphing that they would consider the Secretary-General post over a permanent slot on the Council? The answer would seem to be yes, but I am sure Delhi diplomats would say no. Perm 5 members might be concerned that Tharoor comes from an emerging power that could seek to wield its influence behind the S-G, something that is not a concern with candidates from much smaller states—such as Sri Lanka (Jayantha Dhanapala or Ghana in the case of Kofi Annan). There is also the Pakistan factor. Now that Delhi has its candidate, expect Karachi to announce theirs soon. If he gets traction during the next week or two I’ll post Tharoor’s picture and bio.

Mongolia

The webmaster wants to thank those who have written concerning the candidacy of Mongolia’s Elbegdorj Tsakhia. The Webmaster stands behind the contention that he is a long shot. That could change and he could move up or down the scale, but his name is mentioned in diplomatic circles.

Trying to Align the Non-Aligned

Reports are coming that during the meeting last week of the Non-Aligned Movement, Jayantha Dhanapala and Surakiart Sathirathai were courting NAM members. They represent the largest grouping of states with 114 members (there are 191 UN members). Each sought to round up votes for their candidacy. Both found themselves being questioned about conditions in their home states: Sri Lanka on the brink of civil war and Thailand still trying to emerge from a political transition of power.

Losing Ground

Ramos-Horta without question is slipping within the region. Also, recent anarchy in East Timor has hurt his candidacy.

More as it develops

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