Accra: Mr Emmanuel Frimpong, President of the African Tourism Research Network (ATRN), has called on Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, the current Secretary-General of UN Tourism, to reconsider his decision to seek a third term. The move has sparked significant concerns within the global tourism community, with Mr Frimpong describing it as unethical and a bad precedent for the organization.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Frimpong highlighted that the UN Tourism, previously known as the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), has traditionally limited its Secretary-General’s tenure to two terms. This practice aligns with broader UN norms, ensuring leadership rotation and fresh perspectives. Extending the tenure beyond the established norms could undermine democratic principles and transparency, setting a dangerous precedent for future leadership.
The ATRN President emphasized that changing the rules to accommodate a third term raises ethical concerns about self-interest and manipulation of governance structures. This move could be viewed as an attempt to cling to power rather than prioritizing the organization’s best interests. Allegations of irregularities in Mr Pololikashvili’s previous election, including claims of electoral process manipulation, have further fueled concerns about fairness and transparency.
Some key member states have publicly opposed Mr Pololikashvili’s bid for a third term, indicating broader dissatisfaction among member states and stakeholders. According to Mr Frimpong, a leader lacking international support cannot effectively drive the global tourism agenda. The opposition from major stakeholders reflects a significant loss of confidence in his administration.
The ATRN President asserted that the global tourism sector requires stable, unbiased, and competent leadership representing all member states. Allowing a third term would weaken the organization’s credibility and discourage full engagement from other nations. Critics argue that Mr Pololikashvili’s tenure has focused more on personal political maneuvers rather than advancing the UNWTO’s core mission of promoting sustainable tourism, especially during crucial moments like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Extending a leader’s term beyond established limits raises concerns about power consolidation and erodes accountability within the UNWTO. Mr Frimpong warned that leaders who remain in power too long often develop influence networks that reduce transparency. The UN Tourism must prioritize transparency, accountability, and adherence to democratic norms to ensure innovation, fairness, and sustainable growth. Mr Frimpong urged Mr Pololikashvili to reconsider his decision to run for a third term and act as a statesman for the betterment of the organization.