Ugandan diplomat Otunnu joins race to become next UN head

Ugandan diplomat Olara Otunnu has officially entered the race to become the next Secretary-General of the United Nations. The announcement was made on Monday, adding a new candidate to the already competitive field. Otunnu, a former UN Under-Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, brings extensive diplomatic experience to the contest. The election process for the UN's top post is expected to begin later this year, with the current Secretary-General's term ending in December 2026. Otunnu's candidacy highlights Africa's continued push for representation in the role, as the continent has not held the position since Boutros Boutros-Ghali of Egypt served from 1992 to 1996. Other candidates from various regions are also expected to vie for the position, making the race highly competitive.