The election for the Chairperson of the African Union Commission is scheduled for February 2025 during the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The candidates for the position include notable figures like Raila Odinga from Kenya, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf from Djibouti, and Richard Randriamandrato from Madagascar. Each candidate brings a unique perspective and experience to the table.
Here are brief profiles of the candidates running for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission:
- H.E. Raila Amolo Odinga – Kenya:
- Background: Former Prime Minister of Kenya and a long-standing figure in Kenyan and African politics. He has been involved in various diplomatic roles and has a history of advocating for political reform and democracy.
- Vision: Odinga’s vision likely emphasizes political integration, economic development, and strengthening the AU’s role in peace and security across the continent. His experience in regional politics and infrastructure development would be key points in his campaign.
Raila Odinga campaign has involved extensive lobbying across African nations. He is seen as a visionary leader with a strong Pan-Africanist stance and an advocate for continental unity and development.
2. H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf – Djibouti:
Background: Currently serving as the Foreign Affairs Minister of Djibouti. He has a deep experience in diplomatic affairs, notably chairing the Arab League’s Foreign Ministers Council and engaging in international diplomacy.
Vision: Youssouf is seen as a strong candidate due to his diplomatic experience and influence in regional politics. His campaign might focus on enhancing AU’s international relations, particularly with the Arab world and beyond, leveraging his extensive network.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has received endorsements, including from the current AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki, indicating strong backing from some quarters. His diplomatic experience and influence in regional politics are highlighted as key strengths.
3. H.E. Richard Randriamandrato – Madagascar:
Background: Although less detailed information is available publicly, Randriamandrato is likely involved in Madagascan politics or diplomacy, with a focus on regional integration and development.
Vision: His candidacy would aim to bring perspectives from the Indian Ocean islands, potentially focusing on issues like climate change, maritime security, and economic integration within the AU framework.
Richard Randriamandrato represents the Indian Ocean island perspective, which might focus on unique challenges and opportunities like maritime security and climate change adaptation.
A televised debate for the candidates, known as Mjadala Afrika Leadership Debate, is scheduled for December 13, 2024, providing an opportunity for candidates to address the AU’s agenda, their vision, and engage with African citizens directly.
The debate will be available in the 6 languages on the digital platforms of 𝐥 , 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞 , the website http://au.int and YouTube, X (Twitter), Facebook, Instagram.
This election cycle is crucial as it follows the term of Moussa Faki Mahamat, who has been re-elected once before, meaning the AUC is looking for new leadership to guide the continent’s agenda through the next term. The process involves regional nominations, debates, and finally, an election by the AU Assembly through a secret ballot, adhering to the principles of rotation among regions, gender parity, and merit-based selection.
