Youssouf, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, has denied reports of his withdrawal from the AUC Chairperson election. He confirmed his ongoing candidacy amidst speculations and previous false reports. The election process involves multiple rounds of voting, requiring a two-thirds majority for a successful candidacy.
Just days before the upcoming African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson elections, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has found himself at the center of speculation regarding his candidacy. Reports from various Arab media suggested that Youssouf had withdrawn from the race, posing a challenge to Kenya’s candidate, Raila Odinga. However, Youssouf took to X on Wednesday evening to refute these claims, asserting that he remains a contender in the election.
Youssouf clarified his position by stating, “Incorrect news about my withdrawal from the race to assume the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission was reported in some Arab media outlets; I confirm here that I am still in the competition.” His firm statement came after a brief meeting with Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi in Addis Ababa, which also spurred speculation.
This is not the first instance where Youssouf has had to deny withdrawal rumors. Three weeks prior, he faced similar social media reports suggesting he had exited the race to support Raila Odinga, which he dismissed as false at the time. The African Union confirmed through AFP that no candidates had submitted withdrawal letters.
Youssouf is one of three candidates vying for the AUC Chairperson position, alongside Raila and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato. The elections scheduled for February 15 are significant, prompting final campaigns from all candidates. Raila held discussions with Burundi’s President, while Mudavadi met with Morocco’s Foreign Minister, aiming to enhance their support base.
The AUC Chairperson election process involves the Assembly of Heads of State and Government voting through secret ballots, requiring a two-thirds majority of members. Candidates remain on the ballot through multiple rounds, narrowing down to the top contenders if necessary. Failure to reach a majority could lead to interim leadership by the Deputy Chairperson until fresh elections occur, ensuring the leadership adheres to the AU’s regional rotation principles.
Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has clarified ongoing misconceptions regarding his candidacy for the African Union Commission Chairperson position, asserting he has not withdrawn from the race. Despite recent media reports and prior rumors, Youssouf remains a candidate alongside Raila Odinga and Richard Randriamandrato. The upcoming elections necessitate strategic campaigning from all parties, with a complex voting process stipulated by AU statutes.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
