Nigerian ambassador Martin Uhomoibhi has been elected to head the United Nations Human Rights Council and has pledged to act as a "bridge" between the often-fractious groups within the body. "As an African I shall be a bridge between East and West, North and South," Mr Uhomoibhi told the 47-member council after being elected by acclamation. "I have no interest to elevate one over the other."| "Although one may note that some bridges are indeed toll bridges. They take a great deal of upkeep, naturally. One might even say that some bridges are high maintenance." |
The council was set up in 2006 to replace the widely discredited Human Rights Commission, but has itself come under fire for factionalism and a perceived over-concentration on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Mr Uhomoibhi said he would continue the work of his predecessors to break down what he called the "block syndrome" in the work of the council, adding he was in favour of "cross-regional, cross-cultural and cross-civilisation dialogue".
"I shall respect all shades of opinion although I shall cling to my own beliefs and convictions without allowing them to impede my judgement or conflict with my duties as president," he said. The council will hold its next regular session from September 8-26. |