Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett trails in UN Secretary-General race

Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana's permanent representative to the United Nations, has moved to second place in the race for UN Secretary-General following an informal Security Council vote. In the third round of polling, Rodrigues-Birkett received eight supportive votes, trailing Costa Rican candidate Rebeca Grynspan, who secured nine supportive votes.

Rodrigues-Birkett's candidacy has drawn attention due to her past political stances, specifically her historical support for the Cuban government. During a 2013 speech in Guyana's National Assembly, she praised Fidel Castro and called for an end to the United States embargo against Cuba.

If elected, the 52-year-old would become the first woman and the first indigenous person to lead the United Nations. The Security Council's informal votes serve to gauge support among member states, though the final decision rests with the General Assembly. The five permanent members of the Security Council hold veto power, making their strategic alignment essential for any candidate's success.