For the first time in history, a woman will lead the International Monetary Fund. French Finance Minister Christine Lagarde was tapped to replace Dominique Strauss-Kahn after he was accused of sexually assaulting a maid in New York.

Perhaps Lagarde was chosen to send a message since the IMF has gotten so much bad press over DSK’s alleged crimes against women, or maybe she’s simply the best available to bully the weaker countries.

Lagarde reportedly beat out Agustin Carstens, governor of the Bank of Mexico. — PZS

BBC:

The results are in: I am honoured and delighted that the board has entrusted me with the position of MD of the IMF!” Ms Lagarde said via Twitter minutes after the announcement.

In a statement, the IMF said: “The executive board of the International Monetary Fund today selected Christine Lagarde to serve as IMF managing director and madame chairman of the executive board for a five-year term starting on July 5, 2011.”

Read more

Your support matters…

Independent journalism is under threat and overshadowed by heavily funded mainstream media.

You can help level the playing field. Become a member.

Your tax-deductible contribution keeps us digging beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that unearths what's really happening- without compromise.

Give today to support our courageous, independent journalists.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG