Vesna Pusic, former Croatian foreign minister, candidate for the position of the next secretary-general, presents herself to the member states at the United Nations headquarters in New York, April 13, 2016. (Xinhua/Li Muzi)

ZAGREB, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- Former Croatian Foreign Minister Vesna Pusic on Thursday withdrew her campaign for the post of UN secretary-general before the Security Council's second straw poll on candidates.

In a press release, she said that the first poll showed her chances were not realistic and the post would likely go to some one who has already worked or works at the UN.

"For that reason, I am withdrawing my candidacy for the post of UN secretary-general and I will not participate in further activities related to this election," she added.

The incumbent UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will conclude his term at the end of 2016.

In July, the UN Security Council held its first straw poll on candidates vying to become the next UN secretary-general.

Pusic got the least encourage vote, according to diplomats.

Former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Guterres is the frontrunner, followed by former Slovenian President Danilo Turk, diplomats said earlier.

The UN Security Council's second straw poll on candidates is scheduled for Aug. 5.

UN secretary-general shall be appointed by the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council. In practice, the Security Council, particularly its five permanent members, will make the final choice and send a single candidate to the General Assembly for approval.