Museveni Lobbies UN Security Council Ambassadors to Back Otunnu for UNSG

ENTEBBE – Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has intensified Uganda’s campaign to secure the United Nations’ top job for Ambassador Olara Otunnu, holding a meeting with ambassadors representing members of the UN Security Council at State House Entebbe.

In a statement issued on Monday, Museveni said he formally presented Otunnu as Uganda’s candidate for the position of United Nations Secretary-General and urged the diplomats to relay Uganda’s endorsement to their respective governments.

“I urged them to convey Uganda’s endorsement to their respective governments,” Museveni said. “Ambassador Otunnu has the experience, integrity, and diplomatic credentials to lead the UN.”

The President also highlighted Uganda’s contributions to regional peace and security, as well as its long-standing refugee-hosting policy, arguing that these reflect the values underpinning Kampala’s support for Otunnu’s candidature.

Ambassador Olara Otunnu addresses diplomats. Looking on is President Yoweri Museveni (background)

The meeting comes as the race to succeed current UN Secretary-General António Guterres gathers momentum, with candidates seeking backing from the 15-member UN Security Council, which plays a decisive role in recommending a candidate to the UN General Assembly.

Otunnu, a veteran diplomat and former United Nations Under-Secretary-General, was recently nominated by Uganda to contest for the world’s highest diplomatic office. His campaign has received strong backing from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has called for a coordinated national effort to rally international support behind his bid.

Uganda’s Foreign Minister-designate Ambassador Adonia Ayebare and the country’s former premier Dr Ruhakana Rugunda were among dignitaries attending the meeting.

Museveni’s direct engagement with Security Council representatives signals Uganda’s determination to mount a high-level diplomatic campaign as the selection process enters a critical phase.