Sharp elbows are already in evidence as governments jockey for position to replace the IMF’s Dominique Strauss Kahn (DSK) after sexual assault charges. The selection of the new Managing Director of the IMF is likely to maintain an old precedent or establish a new one. Thus, this is much more than just about the individual aspirants or even the country that would nominate them. Rather, it is becoming about regional influence and the established versus emerging economies. New World Economic Order? Tradition has evolved that the World Bank President is an American nominee (effectively at discretion of US President). On the other hand, the IMF Chief was a European (more frequently French). However, the emerging economies, particularly China and Asian states may be inclined to challenge that unwritten rule. Dominique Strauss-Kahn’s embarrassing and sudden fall has only emboldened them to believe the time is now rather than later. Calls from some European officials and bankers for DSK to resign, (he has neither yet been convicted or had much opportunity to relate his defense, if any), are at least in part motivated by the desire to as quickly as possible move with a European successor before a full blown debate about who has dibs on the IMF Chief’s post erupts into a true debate. The IMF is more than just one person, and is staffed by talents that can carry-on with multiple responsibilities probably for an indefinite period. The Deputy Managing Director, an American, John Lipsky is already in place and filling the void. However, neither the Europeans nor the United States, (US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geitner has added his voice to put pressure on DSK, at least calling for appointment of interim Chief, but that would only be new title rather than role for John Lipsky), look favorably upon a vacuum. The IMF and World Bank have been working just fine from the perspective of the established developed economies. IMF as Global Central Bank The IMF is important not just to developing economies or those in trouble, (Greece, Portugal), but also established. The IMF acts as a form Global Central Bank. It helps address disruptions, imbalances and potential liquidity issues. If Ben Bernanke is the most powerful man in the United States, then DSK was the globe’s equivalent by some estimates. Tug for Power It is difficult to see the rising economies allowing this opportunity to evaporate to assert their new economic power. If not the job, these new tigers will secure other concessions to their new increasingly asserted might. Related Reports at – “International Financial Crisis” - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/c/international-financial-crisis By Ambassador Muhamed Sacirbey Face Book at “Diplomatically Incorrect” Twitter at DiplomaticallyX