Ban, 72, has been unable to capitalise on his much-anticipated homecoming after a decade as secretary-general of the United Nations in New York. The timing of the case could hardly be worse for Ban, whose high international profile and clean image were expected to be assets as he returned to a nation reeling from a presidential corruption scandal. President Park Geun-hye has been impeached by parliament and stripped of her powers while a court decides her fate. Ban has yet to affiliate himself with a party but had been expected to run as a conservative. However, a party, funds and political machinery to support Ban could come together quickly if and when he announces he will run for president.

Source: The Star January 24, 2017 08:04 UTC