Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and Colombia have endorsed Albert Ramdin for the role of Secretary General of the OAS. Ramdin, with past experience in the organization, is viewed as qualified to address modern challenges. The election will be held on March 10, amidst criticism of outgoing Secretary General Luis Almagro.
Five Latin American countries—Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and Colombia—have collectively endorsed Albert Ramdin, Suriname’s Foreign Minister, as their candidate for the Secretary General position of the Organization of American States (OAS). Ramdin is noted for his prior role as Assistant Secretary General, and is considered particularly qualified to tackle present challenges and to introduce innovative perspectives.
The election for the new Secretary General will take place on March 10, following the conclusion of Luis Almagro’s decade-long term, which ends on May 25. Paraguayan Foreign Minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano is also competing for the position.
In a joint statement, the foreign ministries of the endorsing countries highlighted that this decision symbolizes a significant advancement towards regional unity in light of current geopolitical dynamics. They described it as a historic opportunity for the OAS and for the Caribbean to potentially lead this crucial platform for hemispheric integration.
Additionally, the document emphasized that Minister Ramdin’s extensive diplomatic experience, particularly his previous tenure at the OAS, equips him to effectively manage the contemporary issues affecting nations across the Americas.
Luis Almagro’s tenure was marked by controversy, including a 2022 investigation centered around allegations of an inappropriate relationship with an assistant. His involvement in the ascent of Jeanine Áñez to power in Bolivia in 2019 remains contentious, and Áñez is currently under pre-trial detention.
The endorsement of Albert Ramdin for Secretary General of the OAS by five South American countries marks a significant move towards strengthening regional unity and leadership, particularly for the Caribbean. Ramdin’s prior experience as Assistant Secretary General is seen as critical in addressing the challenges faced by the Americas. The upcoming vote represents a pivotal moment for the OAS amid geopolitical shifts.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
