Submitted by Francis Ssekandi, Jan 15, 2007 12:52

Dear Benny Avni,

I think to be fair, you should be able to find something worthwhile to say about the qualifications and competence of non-American appointees at the UN. You seem to think that only an American fits the bill for reforming the UN or ably carrying out the task of making the UN a truly international organization that serves its member states and the people of this world! I think in this respect the appointment of a woman Deputy-Secretary-General from Africa where so much has been said about the marginalization of women speeks millions and the Secretary-General deserves praise for his foresight and sensitivity to Women's rights. What I think is even more remarkable is that the SG reached out and chose someone who overcame the odds of her country's status in the world to acquire an outstanding education, become a forceful academic voice for human rights and then succeed in two ministerial positions at her age and be recognised internationall. The SG hould be commended. Kofi Annan has been buffeted enough and I think we should now leave it to future historians to judge his 10 years tenure at the helm of the World body. I believe future historians will be more objective and will be able to appreciate the odds he had to deal with, the courage he displayed in dealing with not only the most powerful men/women on earth but also the most powerful States without showing any fear or favour. Efforts to throw smears at him, the usual stuff hurled against African leaders mailed to stick. He stood up for principle. He was not afraid to engage anyone in discussing the most critical and intricate issues facing this planet of ours with reason and fairness. I believe managed to demonstrate that he was a true world leader transcending colour or origin. I wish all current and future African leaders can do us as proud d in the service of their people as Koffi did in the service of humanity.

Francis Ssekandi

Professor of Law, Columbia University

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