Diaspora and rights groups voice opposition
Members of the Sudanese diaspora and a range of international human rights monitors have publicly denounced the candidature of Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh for the post of UN secretary-general. Their objections centre on her denial of accusations that the United Arab Emirates has played a role in fuelling Sudan’s conflict by providing support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group implicated in the violence.
Allegations and the nominee's response
Critics say Nusseibeh’s rejection of those accusations undermines concerns about the UAE’s conduct in Sudan and raises questions about the perceived neutrality expected of a UN chief. Nusseibeh was nominated by the UAE last week; she has denied the claims that her country has been supporting the RSF, prompting further condemnation from diaspora organisations and human rights observers.
Nomination disrupts a stalled selection process
The UAE’s move to put forward Nusseibeh comes as the race to succeed António Guterres — who is completing his second five-year term this year — had been described as gridlocked. The nomination has injected new controversy and attention into the process, complicating efforts by member states to reach the consensus typically sought for the UN’s top job.
Potential implications for the UN race
Observers say the episode highlights how geopolitical disputes and allegations of involvement in conflicts can affect perceptions of candidates for high international office. While the formal selection is decided by UN member states, the public denunciations by diaspora groups and rights monitors add a layer of scrutiny that could influence debates among governments and within the Security Council.