Amid global criticism, UNAIDS chief efforts lauded by African Union
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Facing sharp criticism for failing to handle sexual harassment cases within the organization, Michel Sidibé, executive director of the UNAIDS, has received unprecedented support from the African Union (FU).
Senior members from African countries passed a motion recognizing Sidibe's efforts to control the AIDS epidemic on the continent. They lauded his “relentless advocacy to ensure that all populations, including the most vulnerable, have access to health services.” 
An independent report, released last December, revealed that the UNAIDS failed to efficiently deal with the cases of sexual harassment, bullying and abuse of power. The investigation found that the top leadership was responsible for the failure.
Following the report's findings, Sidibé announced that he will reduce his tenure in the organization, and step down in June this year. He was due to hold office until January 2020.
On Monday, during the 32nd ordinary session of the AU Assembly held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia recognized Sidibe's vision for keeping HIV among the top global health priorities and for his efforts in improving the health of the people of Africa, the UNAIDS statement maintained. 
The AU “counts on his [Sidibé] unflinching commitment and abiding leadership to continue to promote the health and well-being of the peoples of the African continent,” senior delegates attending the Assembly said.
“It is a privilege to serve the people of Africa and the world, and I have dedicated my forty-year career to ensuring that vulnerable populations everywhere can live with dignity,” said Sidibé.
“The global support for the AIDS response and people living with HIV has been unprecedented, and we must redouble our efforts to end AIDS.” 
Infuriated over the report's findings, Sweden, the second-biggest donor to the UNAIDS, decided to freeze funding until Sidibe steps down from his post.
Meanwhile, United Nations secretary-general, António Guterres, appointed Shannon Hader as the new Deputy Executive Director of Programme of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS at the UNAIDS and Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations.
“Shannon is an exceptional leader in AIDS and TB —with extensive experience in improving systems for health,” said Sidibé.
(Top Image: Michel Sidibe, executive director of the UNAIDS, during a press conference at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, July 18, 2018. /VCG Photo)