If Ngozi-Okonjo Iweala became President of the World Bank

Given the current impasse concerning the future of Wolfowitz, it is currently rumoured in policy wonk circles that Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is being considered as the consensus candidate for the job.

Clearly, Wolfowitz must go.

We know this, he knows this.

As the neo-con architect of the US invasion of Iraq, Wolfowitz will follow Rumsfeld and John Bolton. But the US govt has realised that, by underestimating the antipathy for Bolton, little room for manoeuvre was left to ensure that he be replaced with someone able more effectively to exert influence on the future direction of affairs of the UN.

By ‘graciously’ offering to support the candidature of a non-American, a woman, an accomplished developing country woman for that matter, the US govt redeems itself in one fell swoop. No longer the arrogant, bullying, imperialist, but rather leading the vanguard of this new liberal neo-com weltanschauung. Easy to spin, but only effective if the woman can be controlled.

As we speak, overtures are being made to Dr. Iweala. Also as we speak, Washington analysts are running the numbers. What is her price? What can she be offered in return for power? More money for Africa? OK, but only if we see more large scale infrastructure projects (for the likes of Haliburton) and a tendering regime that militates against govt-to-govt style deals much favoured by the Chinese. More Africans in decision making positions? Ok. As long as the US maintains a quiet veto on appointments and is able to vet credentials. So, an Iweala Presidency. What would this mean? How would she perform? Would she be good for Africa. Please comment.