The African Union (AU) has elected Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Youssouf, as the new Chairperson of the AU Commission, following a highly competitive election during the AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The election, held on Saturday, saw Youssouf emerge victorious after a prolonged voting process, defeating Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s former Foreign Minister, Richard Randriamandrato.
Youssouf’s victory marks the beginning of a four-year tenure, succeeding Chad’s Moussa Faki, who has led the AU Commission since 2017. His election comes at a critical time for the AU as it navigates pressing regional challenges, including security concerns, economic integration, and diplomatic coordination among member states.
The election process was intense, with all 55 AU member states participating except for six suspended nations. Initially, Odinga appeared to have a strong footing in the race, having garnered significant domestic and international support. Backed by Kenyan President William Ruto, he campaigned extensively across the continent, meeting with African leaders and engaging in diplomatic efforts to bolster his candidacy. His team had claimed endorsements from at least 21 countries, creating a perception of early dominance in the contest.
However, as voting progressed, the dynamics shifted. Odinga led the first round, securing the highest number of votes, but by the third round, he trailed Youssouf, who gained 23 votes to Odinga’s 20. Randriamandrato, who received only five votes in that round, was eliminated from the race.
Youssouf continued to build momentum, securing 25 votes in the fourth round compared to Odinga’s 21. The contest remained fierce, with one spoilt vote and two abstentions recorded in that round. In the fifth round, Youssouf extended his lead with 26 votes, while Odinga maintained 22.
By the sixth round, the contest reached a decisive point. AU election rules mandate that if neither candidate secures the required majority, the one with the lower votes is eliminated. With Odinga receiving 22 votes and Youssouf maintaining 26, Odinga was forced out of the race. In the seventh and final round, Youssouf secured victory with 33 votes, cementing his position as the new AU Commission Chairperson.
As the head of the AU’s secretariat, Youssouf now bears the responsibility of implementing AU policies and advancing the organization’s strategic goals. His leadership is expected to focus on strengthening regional unity, enhancing economic cooperation, and addressing security threats across the continent. With his extensive diplomatic experience, his tenure will be closely watched as he steers the AU through evolving global and regional dynamics.
