Indonesia’s minister Budi Gunadi enters race to become next WHO chief

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2 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said his nomination for director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) was a direct mandate from President Prabowo Subianto.

“The president pointed out that we are a large country but have never had a representative in a top position at a UN agency. Seeing this opportunity, he asked me to step forward,” Sadikin told reporters here on Monday.

He said the president had also entrusted him with amplifying the voices of fellow developing countries to ensure they receive greater attention on the global stage.

Sadikin noted that many countries, including Indonesia, see a pressing need for a global leader who can champion the interests of the Global South, emphasizing that representation is crucial given the region’s large population.

“Therefore, there must be a representative from the Global South leading global institutions, such as the WHO,” the minister said.

Regarding the election process, Sadikin acknowledged that it would be a lengthy process, with two stages remaining before the field of candidates is narrowed to three finalists.

The UN health agency is currently led by Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Ethiopia’s former foreign and health minister, who is serving his second and final term, from 2022 to 2027. He was the first African to serve as the organization’s director-general.

According to the WHO’s official website, four candidates are currently running for the top post, each nominated by their respective governments. In addition to Sadikin, the candidates are Hans Henri P. Kluge of Belgium, Hanan Balkhy of Saudi Arabia, and Hanan Mohammed Al-Kuwari of Qatar.