In a closely contested election during the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, was elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), defeating Kenya's former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.
The election process was intense, extending over multiple rounds of voting. Initially, Odinga led the first two rounds, securing 20 and 22 votes respectively. However, as the voting progressed, Youssouf gained momentum, ultimately obtaining the required 33 votes in the seventh round to clinch the position.
Odinga's defeat has been interpreted by some analysts as a reflection of Kenya's regional isolation within the AU. Despite strong backing from the East African Community and a campaign led by President William Ruto, Odinga was unable to secure the necessary support from other member states.
Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti's Foreign Minister since 2005, is set to begin his four-year term as AUC Chairperson in March 2025. He succeeds Moussa Faki of Chad and will be tasked with addressing pressing issues on the continent, including political instability and economic development.
This election outcome highlights the complex dynamics and shifting alliances within the African Union, as member states navigate their interests and regional influences in selecting their leadership.