The race for the African Union Commission’s chairmanship has intensified, with contenders seeking support from leaders across Africa. In Kenya, former Prime Minister and presidential aspirant Raila Odinga has officially launched his bid to succeed the current Chairman, Moussa Faki of Chad, whose term will end early next year.
The AUC’s Chairperson election will be held in February 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the African Union Summit.
Kenya officially submitted Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Chairmanship in July. On Tuesday, August 27, President William Ruto hosted several Presidents and former Presidents at State House, Nairobi, to launch Odinga’s campaign to become the next African Union Commission Chair.
Some of the leaders present included Presidents Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Yoweri Museveni (Uganda), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and the Prime Minister of Burundi Gervais Ndirakobuca.
Raila Odinga is competing against other notable candidates for the AU Chairmanship, including Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Youssouf, Mauritius’ Anil Gayan, and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato. Each candidate’s profile below highlights their distinct strengths and extensive experience.
Mahmoud Youssouf – Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs
In April 2024, Djibouti nominated its Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, as its candidate for the African Union chairmanship. The Djibouti government highlighted Youssouf’s extensive diplomatic experience, emphasizing that it made him a strong contender for the position.
“Djibouti expresses its faith in the ability of Mr. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, a man of experience and seasoned diplomat, knowing the mysteries of the Continental Organization to serve and breathe new life into the Pan-African Organization,” said the Djibouti Presidency.
Djibouti highlighted that Youssouf brings over two decades of experience as Minister of Foreign Affairs, representing a nation they describe as “a haven of peace, distinguished by its unwavering commitment to conflict resolution through dialogue and negotiation.”
Djibouti expressed strong confidence in its candidate, stating that Youssouf possesses all the “assets” needed to meet the continent’s expectations and interests. In addition to his diplomatic skills, Youssouf is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.
Anil Gayan – Mauritius
Mauritius has endorsed Senior Counsel Anil Kumarsingh Gayan for the African Union chairmanship, confident in his ability to address the continent’s complexities. His extensive experience in international affairs and diplomatic skills position him well to navigate the challenges, aspirations, and opportunities facing Africa.
At the launch of his bid at the Mauritian State House on August 10, Gayan emphasized his commitment to creating a future marked by unity, strength, and opportunity for all Africans.
“By building strategic partnerships and engaging with international development partners, the UN system, and other global entities, I will ensure that Africa’s interests are fully represented and well respected”, he stated.
With over four decades of experience in international diplomacy, governance, and legal affairs, Gayan has held key Ministerial portfolios, including Foreign Affairs, Tourism, and Health.
In his distinguished career, Gayan has led high-level delegations, negotiated bilateral agreements, and represented Mauritius at global and regional forums, effectively advancing the country’s interests.
He has also led AU election observer missions to Madagascar, Comoros and Rwanda amongst others.
Richard Randriamandrato -Madagascar
Richard Randriamandrato is a prominent Malagasy politician known for his influential roles in Madagascar’s government. He has served as the Minister of Economy and Finance and has been deeply involved in the country’s political and economic spheres. His efforts have centered on implementing economic reforms and development projects to enhance Madagascar’s financial stability and growth.
Randriamandrato was endorsed for the African Union chairmanship by President Andry Rajoelina, who endorsed his candidacy due to Randriamandrato’s extensive involvement in regional and continental affairs. Rajoelina highlighted Randriamandrato’s significant influence in African politics, positioning him as a strong candidate for the role.
Honourable Mention
Somalia’s Fawzia Yusuf Adam and Seychelles’ Vincent Meriton have both exited the race for the African Union chairmanship for distinct reasons. Fawzia, a former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, withdrew following her government’s request to support Djibouti’s bid but chose to back Raila Odinga instead. Meanwhile, Meriton stepped down due to arising health issues.
