By John Ikani
The World Health Organization (WHO) member states on Tuesday confirmed the re-election of Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus for a second term as Director-General of the U.N. health agency.
The result of the secret vote was a formality since he was the only candidate.
Dr Tedros’ re-election was confirmed during the 75th World Health Assembly in Geneva.
The process began by member states being asked in April 2021 to submit names for candidates for the Director-General position.
Ministers and delegates took turns to shake hands and hug Tedros, a former health minister from Ethiopia, who has steered the UN agency through a turbulent period dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The president had to use a gavel several times to interrupt the applause.
German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach tweeted on Tuesday: “Just re-elected as Director General of #WHO: @DrTedros. 155/160 votes, spectacular result. Congratulations, fully deserved. Germany recently overtook the United States as the UN health agency’s top donor.
Reacting to his re-election, Tedros said: “I’m deeply grateful for the trust and confidence of member states. I thank all health workers and my WHO colleagues around the world. I look forward to continuing our journey together.”
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, a former health minister from Ethiopia will commence another 5 years as Head of the UN health agency on 16 August 2022.
A Director-General can be re-appointed once, in accordance with World Health Assembly rules and procedures.
