Annan bears responsibility for mismanagement of U.N.

The scandalous $60 billion oil-for-food program that was in place during Saddam Hussein's dictatorial rule in Iraq is justification enough to question U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan's effectiveness as head of the world organization. But recent revelations of widespread corruption, and mismanagement to the tune of more than $200 million make it clear that Annan cannot continue in this important position. He should resign -- if for no other reason than to keep the anti-U.N. forces in Congress from slashing this nation's annual contributions to the organization.
The U.S. House International Relations Committee's investigations subcommittee is looking into allegations of mismanagement of $219 million in equipment by U.N. officials. The probe is part of the international relations committee's decision to expand its investigation of the oil-for-food program into a broader examination of the management of the world body. And all this has taken place under Annan's watch.
Growing chorus
While the Bush administration has so far refrained from joining the growing chorus on Capitol Hill for withholding funds until wholesale changes in the vast bureaucracy are made, the White House cannot turn a blind eye to what has been going on at U.N. headquarters in New York City and around the world.
In addition to the allegations of corruption in the oil-for-food program, which was designed to allow Iraq, after the Persian Gulf War, to buy food and medicine for its people, the committee is investigation the following:
UCorruption in the World Meteorological Organization, a U.N.-affiliate agency, including the theft of $3 million and the disappearance of its deputy director.
UThe theft of $4 million from the U.N. mission in Kosovo.
UA kickback scheme orchestrated at the U.N.-administered airport in Pristina by an official who rigged a contract for a national airline, and another official who received a free apartment as part of the scheme.
UAccusations of rape and theft against U.N. peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
UThe resignation of the U.N. High Commission for Refugees, Ruud Lubbers, following allegations of sexual harassment. Lubbers has denied any wrongdoing.
As for the $219 million worth of equipment that cannot be accounted for, the international relations panel is looking at four programs: the U.N. Family Planning Agency; the U.N. Development Program; the Office of Project Services; and, Habitat Settlement Rehabilitation Program.
The oil-for-food scandal has hit close to Annan's home, with his son, Kojo, allegedly being involved in negotiations to sell 2 million barrels of Iraqi oil to a Moroccan company in 2001. The program was a cash cow for Saddam. He pocketed more than $20 billion that was supposed to go for humanitarian aid in his country.
While the secretary-general has launched an investigation, headed by former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, he did so only after it became apparent the story of this scandal would not go away.
If Annan is truly concerned about the future of the world organization, he will step aside before members of Congress express their displeasure at what has been happening by withholding money.