Ajay Banga, US national, named sole candidate for World Bank president role

The World Bank Group’s board of executive directors has announced Ajay Banga, a U.S. national, as the only nominee for the position of the next president of the lender.

The global bank disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Friday.

Last month, David Malpass, president of World Bank Group, announced his intentions to step down from his position — after more than four years of service.

Following Malpass’ decision to quit, the bank has been shopping for his replacement.

Speaking in the statement on Friday, the financial institution said only one nomination was received and that Banga would be considered for the position.

“The World Bank Group’s board of executive directors today confirmed that, as announced on February 22, the period for submitting nominations for the position of the next President of the World Bank Group closed on Wednesday at 6:00 pm ET,” World Bank said.

“The board received one nomination and would like to announce that Ajay Banga, a U.S. national, will be considered for the position.

“In accordance with established procedures, the board of executive directors will conduct a formal interview with the candidate in Washington D.C., and expect to conclude the Presidential selection in due course,” the board said.

In February, US President Joe Biden had nominated Banga to lead the World Bank saying that he is “well equipped” to lead the global institution at “this critical moment in history.”

“He has a proven track record managing people and systems, and partnering with global leaders around the world to deliver results,” Biden had said.

Banga, a 63-years-old, was born in India and is a naturalised US citizen. He currently serves as vice-chairman at General Atlantic — an American growth equity firm providing capital and strategic support for global growth companies.

He previously served as Mastercard’s executive chairman after previously serving as the company’s president and chief executive officer (CEO) from July 2010 to December 31, 2020.

He has also served on the boards of the American Red Cross, Kraft Foods and Dow Inc.

If all goes well, Banga will replace David Malpass, the current World Bank president, who will step down from his position in June.