Bono given chance for Peace Prize

Published on Friday 25 February 2005 12:03

ROCK star Bono is among a record 199 nominations for this year’s Nobel Peace Prize.

The U2 frontman is on the list alongside the likes of former United States Secretary of State Colin Powell. The Norwegian awards committee’s secretary Geir Lundestad said the final count, completed yesterday, included 163 individuals and 36 organisations. The winner will be announced in mid-October.

"This is an increase that shows the continued strong interest in the prize," Lundestad said. He also said there was a broad geographical distribution of nominations.

Last year, Kenyan environmental activist Wangari Maathai won the prize. She was among 194 nominees, the previous record.

The five-member awards committee keeps the nomination list secret for 50 years and gives no hints about who is on it. However, those who nominate candidates often announce their choice.

This year, known nominations include Powell for his efforts to end Sudan’s civil war and Bono for social justice efforts that include trying to persuade rich nations to relieve the debt of poor countries.

Also nominated are Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, exiled Bangledeshi writer Taslima Nasrin, former Illinois governor and anti-death penalty campaigner George Ryan and a campaign to share the award among 1000 women who work for peace.