United Nations

The Maldives has withdrawn its nomination of Virginia Gamba for the post of UN Secretary-General, narrowing the race significantly.

According to a spokesperson for the United Nations General Assembly, the decision reduces the number of candidates from five to three. With this move, only one woman, Rebeca Grynspan, remains among the leading contenders, amid growing calls for a woman to lead the organisation.

Maldives had earlier nominated Gamba, an Argentine national with senior experience in the United Nations, though she had no strong known ties to the country. The Maldives’ Permanent Representative Ali Naseer Mohamed did not provide reasons for the withdrawal.

Meanwhile, Chile has also pulled back its nomination of Michelle Bachelet, though she remains in the race with support from Brazil and Mexico. However, her candidacy faces challenges, including opposition from some US lawmakers, which could affect her chances in the United Nations Security Council.

Another candidate, Rafael Grossi, continues in the race with backing from Argentina, while Macky Sall has been nominated by Burundi.

With nominations closing soon, candidates will participate in interactive sessions from April 20 to present their vision. Although the General Assembly votes, the final decision largely depends on recommendations from the Security Council, where permanent members hold veto power. The process comes amid increasing global calls for gender balance in leadership.