I read with interest the article “Politics of UN leadership” (Nov. 15) by Shashi Tharoor. I personally believe that the US invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan has left the United Nations redundant. It is just a tool in the hands of powerful nations wielding veto power. The United Nations issues statements on equality and justice but it is a platform that does not treat nations equally. The existence of the Security Council is a blot on the United Nations. Over the time, it has become obvious that permanent members of the Security Council make the UN acts on their whims and wishes. The UN is just an organization to protect the interests of the powerful countries.

In such a situation, election of a secretary-general is of no importance. Elect a highly professional and competent guy for the job but if he/she does not have any real power to implement the UN agenda, it is useless. The United Nations will in the long run meet the fate of its predecessor, the League of Nations. I think regional blocs should be strengthened to break the monopoly of few countries.