Bobi Wine Throws Weight Behind Olara Otunnu's UN Secretary-General Bid

Robert Kyagulanyi, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP) and a prominent figure known as Bobi Wine, has expressed his strong support for Olara Otunnu’s campaign to lead the United Nations. Otunnu, a seasoned Ugandan diplomat, is among the candidates vying for the position of UN Secretary-General, with the current office holder, António Guterres, set to conclude his term at the end of 2026.

In a statement, Kyagulanyi highlighted Otunnu’s distinguished career in global diplomacy and his service within the UN system. He described Otunnu’s candidacy as a source of national pride for Uganda, emphasizing his commitment to vulnerable populations and the pursuit of justice on the international stage.

Kyagulanyi specifically pointed to Otunnu’s past work, particularly in advocating for human rights and protecting children affected by armed conflicts, as key qualifications. He noted that Otunnu’s tenure as UN Under-Secretary-General and Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict from 1997 to 2005 demonstrated the kind of leadership the world currently needs.

The NUP leader also recalled Otunnu’s significant role in UN history, including his time as Uganda’s ambassador to the UN and his innovative approach to breaking deadlocks in Security Council proceedings, which became known as the “Otunnu Formula.” This historical precedent has gained renewed relevance as informal straw polls are being used to assess candidates’ support.

While acknowledging potential skepticism due to past political differences between the Ugandan government and Otunnu, Kyagulanyi urged Ugandans to view Otunnu’s international ambitions separately from domestic political disputes. He expressed confidence in Otunnu’s integrity and his potential to champion a more equitable and peaceful world order if elected.

“Ambassador Otunnu has my full solidarity and prayers as he carries our collective aspirations for a fairer world to the global stage,” Kyagulanyi concluded.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/367049/bobi-backs-otunnus-bid-for-un-top-job