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The African Union Commission chairmanship election in Addis Ababa is drawing near, with contenders concluding their campaigns across the continent.
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The election is expected to feature candidates from Kenya, Djibouti, and Madagascar competing; Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssouf is certain he will take home the victory
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The successful candidate will take the reins of the African Union (AU) secretariat for a four-year term, which can be extended by one additional term.
Djibouti’s long-serving Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahmoud Youssouf, is feeling optimistic about becoming the next chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Mahmoud is one of the three candidates vying for the position currently held by former Chadian Prime Minister Moussa Faki, whose second and final term at the AU secretariat will expire in the upcoming February 2025 election.
In a statement on X, the candidate from Djibouti expressed their confidence in securing a win.
My dear friends and supporters, I want to assure you that I will maintain my positive momentum, thanks to your ongoing backing.
With over three decades of substantial experience in diplomacy and governance, Mahmoud is confident that his vision aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
He aims to turn Africa into a unified, thriving, and harmonious continent, guided by key values including diversity, gender equality, and transparency.
While lobbying the African heads of state to support his candidacy, the 60-year-old Djiboutian pledged to implement institutional reforms on the continent to achieve our shared objectives.
His vision for Africa is centered on responsible leadership, good governance, and democracy, developing the capacity of institutions, promoting peace and security, the economy, infrastructure growth, and illuminating a positive African image in the global arena.
Mahmoud is set to compete against Kenya’s previous Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s former Foreign Minister, Richard Randriamandrato.
