Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), is set for a second term as Director-General without any opposition. WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, confirmed that no other candidates had been nominated by Friday’s deadline, making Okonjo-Iweala the sole contender.
Since taking office in March 2021, Okonjo-Iweala, 70, has focused on breathing new life into the organization, often criticized for inefficiency and bureaucratic stagnation. She announced her intention to run again in September, and her current term is set to end in August 2025. The WTO’s 166 member countries appoint their Director-General by consensus, a process she successfully navigated despite initial challenges.
Her candidacy for the first term faced resistance from then U.S. President Donald Trump, who supported a South Korean candidate. However, this opposition was reversed with the inauguration of President Joe Biden, clearing the way for her historic appointment.
Throughout her leadership, Okonjo-Iweala has been known for her dynamic approach, seeking reforms and pushing for greater efficacy within the WTO. Her uncontested re-election signals broad support for her ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the global trade body.
Sources
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.vanguardngr.com/2024/11/no-opposition-as-okonjo-iweala-seeks-second-term-at-wto/amp/
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/no-opposition-as-okonjo-iweala-seeks-second-term-at-wto/%3famp
