Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has been elected as the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Youssouf clinched the position by securing the necessary two-thirds majority, garnering 33 votes in the crucial final round.
The election, held amidst intense competition, saw Kenya’s veteran politician Raila Odinga withdrawing from the race after the sixth round of voting.
Odinga had secured 22 votes in this round, while Youssouf led with 26 votes.
The withdrawal of Odinga paved the way for Youssouf to attempt the seventh and last round of voting to secure the position.
The race initially included three prominent candidates following the elimination of Madagascar’s former Foreign Minister Richard James Randriamandrato after the third round.
Randriamandrato’s exit narrowed the field, setting the stage for a head-to-head between Youssouf and Odinga.
Youssouf, known for his diplomatic acumen, has been Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005 and brings over three decades of experience in African diplomacy.
Raila Odinga, a five-time Kenyan presidential candidate and former Prime Minister, had campaigned vigorously with a platform centered on peace, infrastructure development, and economic transformation.
Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya, is one of the top contenders in the upcoming African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson election, scheduled for February 15-16, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Odinga has reportedly garnered strong support from at least 28 African nations, with 19 heads of state publicly backing his bid.
Odinga’s candidacy is backed by the following countries:
Kenya
Uganda
Tanzania
Senegal
Guinea Bissau
Togo
Gambia
Zambia
Malawi
Zimbabwe
Equatorial Guinea
Democratic Republic of Congo
Rwanda
Burundi
Ghana
Seychelles
Mauritius
Algeria
South Sudan
Eritrea
The election process involves voting by secret ballot, and if no candidate achieves the necessary two-thirds majority in the first round, further rounds will follow until a winner is determined. If no candidate secures the majority after the third round, the election will be suspended.
It’s important to note that six countries, Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Niger, and Gabon, will not participate due to sanctions resulting from political instability.
As the election date approaches, Odinga will compete with Mohamoud Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.
The African Union Commission (AUC) has detailed the procedure for its 2025 elections, announced on January 27, 2025. The elections will unfold in two distinct phases:
First Phase: Scheduled for February 12-13, 2025, where the AU Executive Council, made up of foreign ministers from member states, will elect and appoint the commissioners.
Second Phase: Set for February 15-16, 2025, following the opening ceremony of the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of AU Heads of State, where the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson will be elected.
According to the AUC, the voting process starts with all candidates listed on the ballot. A candidate needs to secure a two-thirds majority to win. If no candidate achieves this after three rounds of voting, the process narrows down to a runoff between the two highest vote-getters.
The AUC elaborated on the voting mechanics:
If after three ballots, no candidate secures the necessary majority, only the two leading candidates will continue, with the candidate having fewer votes being eliminated.
In the case where only one candidate remains but does not achieve the two-thirds majority, the current Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, will suspend the election.
Candidates for the Chairperson position include former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato.
The race for Deputy Chairperson features six candidates: Salah Francis and Selma Malika from Algeria, Mohamed Ahmed Fathi and Hanan Morsy from Egypt, Najat M. Elhajjaji from Libya, and Latifa Akharbach from Morocco.
This structured approach aims to ensure a transparent and democratic process for electing the leadership of the African Union Commission.
Djibouti’s African union chairperson candidate Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Thursday, January 23 2025 paid a courtesy call to President Samia Suluhu of Tanzania.
The visit follows widespread speculation that he had withdrawn from the race against former Kenya Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
A confirmation from the State House in Tanzania has since confirmed Mahmoud’s itinerary in the country which puts an end to the speculations.
“Rais wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania Mhe. Dkt. Samia Suluhu Hassan amekutana na kuzungumza na Mjumbe Maalum wa Rais wa Djibouti Mhe. Ismail Omar Guelleh ambaye ni Waziri wa Mambo ya Nje wa nchi hiyo Mhe. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf mara baada ya kuwasili Ikulu Jijini Dar es Salaam tarehe 23 Januari, 2025,” the statement read.
On Wednesday, January 22 unconfirmed reports were spread that the foreign affairs minister had opted out of the continental race and was due to give an update on the move.
The move prompted a response from the country’s director of communication in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation Moussa Omar to refute the claims.
In his message, Omar confirmed that Mahmoud’s candidature was on course and gaining momentum.
“Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s campaign is gaining momentum. With a vision for an integrated, peaceful, and prosperous Africa, we move forward with determination.”
“Victory is no longer a matter of possibility; it is within reach, fueled by the positive feedback we receive,” the ministry communication team said.
Meanwhile, Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga shifted his focus for the AUC seat to north Africa.
Raila was in Algiers, Algeria on Wednesday, January 22 to affirm his candidature.
According to President Ruto, Algeria aligned with Odinga’s candidature following a meeting with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune held on Friday, June 14, 2025.
Before his visit north, Raila was in Southern African states where he completed another diplomatic blitz across the SADC nations bloc
Over just five days, Raila met with six heads of state, solidifying his vision and agenda for the African continent.
He met President Emmerson Mnangagwa,(Zimbabwe), Nangolo Mumba (Namibia), Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa), Sam Matekane (Lesotho Prime Minister) and newly elected Francisco Chapo of Mozambique
The AUC elections will take place in February 2025.
The winning candidate must secure a two-thirds majority during voting by the 55 member states.
Raila will need at least 36 votes out of the total 55, with each AU member state casting only one vote.
Azimio leader Raila Odinga has disclosed that the race for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson seat is not a matter of life and death for him.
Speaking during a burial ceremony in Bondo constituency, Siaya County on Saturday January 11, 2025, Raila expressed confidence in winning the AUC seat.
Additionally, Raila noted that he is ready to serve the African continent.
“This is Africa’s century. I am grateful for being part of this defining moment,” said Raila.
Raila explained that if he fails to clinch the AUC chairperson position, he is ready to return and proceed with activities back in Kenya.
“When the vote is cast is when we will know whether I have won or not. If we win, it’s okay, and if we don’t, there’s nothing wrong. If I don’t win, I’ll remain here. If I win, it will be good because I will work there and do many things that will help us here
“If I lose, I’ll be here with you, and we will work together as a community,” Raila said.
At the same time, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga lashed at the human rights activists and politicians who are currently very vocal about issues of abductions in the country.
The Siaya Senator accused the human rights activists and politicians of being selective in demanding justice, arguing that they were silent when Azimio supporters were being killed during the post-election demonstrations in 2022.
The election of the next AUC chairperson is set for February. Raila will run against Mahmoud Ali Youssouf from Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.
Raila has rolled out an aggressive campaign that will see him visit at least 10 countries in southern Africa this month.
The ex-PM hit the ground running early last week, taking his vote-hunting mission to Mauritius, where he bagged the support of the island country.
Raila’s campaign team, led by former Kenya’s ambassador to the US, Elkanah Odembo, is crafting a back-to-back campaign schedule that will see the former Prime Minister camping in the southern part of the continent for the better part of January.
Raila Odinga made a compelling case for Africa’s transformation during the Mjadala Afrika debate held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Friday, December 13, 2024.
As a contender for the position of African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, Raila articulated a vision centred on empowering the continent on the global stage and addressing systemic inequalities.
Odinga made a case for his candidature,noting that his extensive experience in various leadership positions has prepared him to effectively work to address the challenges associated with the role, particularly in advocating for essential reforms to ensure the continent’s prosperity.
“We know where we are as Africa. This is why the heads of state came up with the committee on reforms. Ninety-three per cent of the resolutions passed by the assembly of heads of state are never implemented. Some of them have been proven unnecessary, while others are not implementable. Additionally, some relate to the structure and management of the AU at its headquarters,” he said.
“I am ready to work for Africa. There are reforms that will be necessary so that the AU can work more effectively. I am ready on day one when appointed and don’t need any kind of induction. I will offer the best,” said Raila in the live TV debate.
Here are five major takeaways from his address:
1. Permanent UN Security Council seats for Africa
Raila proposed a bold plan to secure two permanent seats for Africa at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
He underscored the urgency of granting veto powers to African representatives, ensuring the continent has a meaningful voice in global security matters.
“This is long overdue. The UN was formed at a time when most African countries were colonies, and that’s why it doesn’t deal with the realities of today,” Raila stated.
“We’re going to insist Africa gets two permanent seats in the Security Council. We cannot be excluded when Europe has three seats. Permanent representation with veto powers is a must,” he added.
Raila’s argument highlighted the disparity in representation, with only five permanent members, China, Russia, France, the UK, and the US, currently wielding veto powers.
2. Restructuring international financial systems
Raila criticized the international financial structure, saying that it disadvantages African nations through high-interest loans compared to other continents of similar status.
“The international financing structure has worked against Africa because countries borrow at high interest rates compared to other nations,” he remarked.
Adding that; “Africa is the richest in terms of resources, but it’s also the poorest in terms of living conditions.”
Raila proposed creating a pool of funds within Africa to provide low-interest loans, thereby reducing dependency on exploitative international lenders.
Raila Odinga speaking at the Mjadala Afrika debate at the African Union Headquarters on Friday, December 13, 2024.
3. Enhancing intra-African trade
Raila emphasized the importance of enhancing trade within the continent, arguing that it is a key driver of economic growth and integration.
“Africa must enhance trade with itself. This is vital for unlocking the continent’s economic potential,” he said.
He linked trade with other critical sectors like agriculture, free movement, and energy, advocating for a holistic approach to development.
4. Realizing the founding fathers’ vision
Raila vowed to pursue the dreams of Africa’s founding fathers, emphasizing unity, prosperity, and self-reliance.
He pledged to lead efforts to actualize their vision if elected AUC Chairperson.
“I am going to lead from the front to ensure that we achieve the vision of the founding fathers of our continent,” he said.
His agenda includes boosting trade, achieving agricultural transformation, enabling free movement, and addressing energy needs – all while fostering unity across the continent.
5. Addressing Africa’s developmental challenges
Raila highlighted Africa’s paradox as the richest continent in resources but the poorest in living conditions.
He called for an urgent restructuring of international financial and trade systems to promote development and alleviate poverty.
“Africa is the least developed continent by comparison when looking at economic statistics. This is because of historical reasons and factors such as international infrastructure that has worked against the continent,” he noted.
He argued that addressing systemic barriers is critical for Africa’s long-term growth and prosperity.
AUC election
The AUC chairperson seat will fall vacant next year as its current occupant Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad is set to finish his two-term at the position.
Faki was first appointed in 2017 and won a second term in 2021.
Raila addressing the press after the debate.
The next AUC chair will be elected at the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in February 2025.
AUC chairperson is elected by the Assembly consisting of the 55 member states for a four-year term, renewable once.
To be elected AUC Chairperson, a candidate must garner a two-thirds majority support during voting by the 55 member states.
Raila will need at least 36 votes out of the total 55 consisting of all AU member states. Each country has only one vote.
The Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) is the one that will vote to elect the next AUC chairperson.
Basically, it’s Presidents and Prime Ministers who vote to elect the AUC chair.
During the two-hour debate, Raila faced off against his competitors for the position, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.
President William Ruto on Monday visited former President Uhuru Kenyatta at his family home in Gatundu where they discussed several issues of national and regional importance.
The head of state lauded Kenyatta for facilitating a smooth power transition after the 2022 elections as well as the goodwill the former President has continued to demonstrate towards his fellow leaders and his support for Kenya’s ongoing progress and development.
Both leaders acknowledged the challenging global environment affecting many countries, including Kenya, caused by a complex interplay of factors: the disruptive effects of COVID-19, the war in Ukraine – which destabilised supply chains and led to high commodity prices, particularly for fertiliser and wheat – volatile currency markets, and a harsh macroeconomic climate.
They noted progress in addressing these adverse impacts, especially in reducing inflation to its lowest level in the past decade, significantly lowering food prices, stabilising the Kenyan shilling, and reducing interest rates.
President Ruto thanked President Kenyatta for laying a strong foundation that has enabled the government to implement key programs under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The programs include transforming agriculture to ensure food security, achieving universal health coverage, providing affordable housing, empowering MSMEs, developing transport and communication infrastructure, last-mile electrification, and re-evaluating and reforming the Competency-Based Curriculum and the education sector in general, among other initiatives.
Both leaders agreed on the urgent need to accelerate these and other programmes to boost household incomes and create more opportunities for Kenyans.
They also underscored the importance of cultivating a nationalistic, patriotic, and harmonious working relationship among all Kenyans and stakeholders, including the three arms of government, religious leaders, civil society, and other partners, to ensure collective national stability and progress.
Additionally, the leaders appreciated the need to achieve broader and more inclusive political consensus in the governance of our country to accelerate the attainment of inclusive growth and fulfill the national development agenda.
They also acknowledged Kenya’s leading role in promoting peace and security in the East African region through diplomatic and peace support initiatives, which are crucial to resolving conflicts, restoring peace, and fostering regional stability.
President Ruto commended President Kenyatta for his patriotism and tireless contributions to peace-making efforts in the region.
President Ruto and President Kenyatta further called for the prompt resolution of the court matters regarding the constitution of the IEBC selection panel, to facilitate the appointment of commissioners.
The two leaders called on Kenyans, friends of Kenya, and international partners to support the candidacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the position of Chair of the African Union Commission.
They also committed to maintaining regular engagements on matters of national importance alongside other leaders and stakeholders.
Raila Odinga officially unveiled his vision for Africa Union on Friday, November 8, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Raila who is the Kenyan candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship was accompanied by government officials including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’oei.
Speaking on his vision for Africa, Raila indicated that his leadership would be characterised by a transformative agenda which will seek to restore Africa’s glory in the global stage.
“My leadership will be pegged on the dreams of our forefathers who expected that by now, Africa would roar in one united voice,” Raila remarked, “We will not put anything in the agenda if we know it will not be implemented.”
Raila decried the travel restrictions in the continent, noting that some of the policies had made it difficult for Africans to travel in their own land, but had given foreigners sweeping liberties from the bureaucracies of travel.
Visa restrictions
Raila said that during his leadership, should he ascend to be the chairperson of the African Commission, he would like to see an Africa that abolishes visa requirements for Africans.
“These are some of the barriers that make us look stupid,” Raila said.
He equally noted that he would advocate for an Africa with open skies, further clearing the travel restrictions for Africans by creating a regional body to handle all overflight and landing permits in the continent.
On energy, Raila stated that Africa has the biggest potential for energy in the world by utilising the various sources including geothermal, wind and solar.
He remarked that under his leadership of the AUC, he would advocate for the harmonisation of electricity prices to spur growth and industrialisation in the continent.
Jobs for the youth
Additionally, Raila challenged the Asian giant economies that Africa had woken up from slumber and was coming to take its rightful place in the global economy.
He said that with a youthful population of over 70 per cent, Africa could easily be the next China if the individual countries in the continent committed to tooling the youth with the right skills for the next phase of industrialisation in Africa.
Raila reiterated his push for unity in the continent and urged political leaders across the continent to come together to ensure the mobilisation of resources for African courses.
Raila indicated also that African problems would only be solved by Africans and that one of the first agenda he would pursue once elected was the abolishment of travel restrictions in the continent to spur business and encourage interactions.
Raila was flanked by youthful members of Parliament from South Africa, Namibia, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya during the official launch of his manifesto for the African Union Commission.
To ascend to the coveted continental seat, Raila will need 66 per cent of the votes which is equivalent to 32 countries voting in his favour.
The other candidates Raila is set to battle it out with include Mohamoud Youssouf of Djibouti, Anil Gayan of Mauritius and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is ready to face off with his competitors for the African Union Commission chairmanship to explain his agenda for the continent, according to the government of Kenya.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi says the debate, dubbed “Mjadala Africa,” will give Raila a chance to outline his vision and how he intends to lead the transformation of Africa through the implementation of the AU Mandate and Africa’s Agenda 2063. Mudavadi says African citizens and other stakeholders will also have time to engage Raila and the other three candidates on the issues they want addressed.
He believes the former prime minister will put his best foot forward and give a reason for all and sundry on the continent to back his bid to become the next AUC chair.
“Our candidate is undoubtedly experienced and well-prepared to participate in the live debate to engage the African people on how to propel the continent’s growth and ensure Africa achieves its goals of African integration and sustainable development, thus making our continent a major player in the Global Arena,” he said in a joint press briefing with the former Prime Minister.
Mudavadi, also the country’s Foreign Affairs Minister, confirmed that Kenya has submitted the requisite documentation of Raila in the manner and form required by the African Union Secretariat.
He rallied Kenyans to support Raila and disclosed that President William Ruto will formally launch Raila Odinga’s candidacy in the continent next Tuesday.
“As Kenyans, we have always come together behind our own, whether on the track, the field, or the stage. Just as we cheered our athletes in the recent Olympics, let us lend our full support to Raila as he carries the Kenyan flag high in the race for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission,” he said.
“This is more than a candidacy. It is a national mission. Hon Raila Odinga represents Kenya’s voice, values, and aspirations on the continent. As he steps forward, let us stand with him, not just as a government but as a united people,” he said at a media briefing in his office.
Raila, appreciating the government for mobilizing support for his bid, said his engagements so far give him optimism regarding his chances of clinching the seat.
“I am happy that the Kenyan government has come forward to make me a candidate. We have submitted our candidacy as required by the AU. From now on, it is all systems go,” he said.
“I have had the occasion to travel across the continent, meeting with different African leaders. I have been very pleased and impressed with the optimism that these leaders are expressing regarding the African Union,” said Raila.
Even as he awaits the debate, the former PM addressed issues he believes ought to be addressed toward the prosperity of the continent. He said the African Union needs to be strengthened in order to enable African people to realize the dreams of the founding fathers of the continent for a united, peaceful, and prosperous Africa, “where the citizens themselves feel that they are free as a people and can work productively for the continent.”
“There are several areas where Africa has problems, such as issues of health, education, and wealth creation. Employment is a major issue. Many young Africans drown in the Mediterranean as they try to run away from poverty and challenges in the continent, seeking greener pastures in Europe. This does not have to happen,” he said.
