Sudanese diaspora and human rights groups denounce UAE nominee for UN top job

Members of the Sudanese diaspora and human rights groups have harshly criticized the Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh, who was nominated by the UAE to replace UN Secretary General António Guterres. Critics point to Nusseibeh's refusal to acknowledge accusations that the UAE is fueling the war in Sudan by supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The UAE has long denied these claims, but international human rights organizations have documented evidence of UAE backing for the RSF, which has been accused of committing atrocities during its war against the Sudanese army.

Nusseibeh, who served as the UAE's representative to the UN until 2024, has consistently echoed the UAE's denials of these accusations. Human rights activists, including Hala al-Karib and Ibrahim Alduma, argue that Nusseibeh's lack of independent stance and the UAE's support for the RSF render her an unsuitable candidate for the UN secretary general position. They contend that endorsing her would undermine the UN's credibility and ability to hold powerful states accountable for their actions.

Critics further argue that electing Nusseibeh as secretary general would effectively place the UAE's interests above those of Sudanese civilians, who desperately need the UN's assistance in holding powerful nations accountable. Kenneth Roth, a former executive director of Human Rights Watch, stated that Nusseibeh's dismissal of UN reports detailing the UAE's ties to the RSF has seriously undermined the fight for justice and accountability for the victims of the conflict.

To become the next UN secretary general, candidates must secure a minimum of nine affirmative votes from the 15 members of the UN Security Council, without receiving a veto from the US, the UK, China, France, or Russia. While former Costa Rican Vice-President Rebeca Grynspan was initially seen as the frontrunner, she too received multiple opposing votes from the permanent members. The next straw poll to determine the frontrunner is expected in the coming days, but the exact timing and format remain undecided.