Mohamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti has won the AU Commission Chairperson role after defeating Raila Odinga of Kenya in a closely contested election. After leading initially, Odinga lost momentum, ultimately leading to Youssouf’s victory in the seventh round. This marks a notable shift in regional support dynamics and presents further challenges for Odinga’s political future.
Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mohamoud Ali Youssouf, secured the African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson position after a competitive voting process involving Heads of State and governments. His victory over Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, followed seven rounds of voting, marking a significant shift from initial predictions favoring Odinga, a seasoned politician with extensive experience.
Initially, Raila Odinga led the votes, especially in the first two rounds, where he garnered 22 votes against Youssouf. However, after the withdrawal of Madagascar’s candidate, Richard Randriamandrato, Youssouf gained momentum, winning crucial votes in subsequent rounds. By the sixth round, Youssouf had managed a lead that ultimately forced Odinga to exit the competition.
Youssouf, leveraging a quieter campaign strategy contrasted with Odinga’s visible efforts, utilized his diplomatic experience as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister. This victory signifies a challenging blow for Odinga, who has faced multiple defeats in his political aspirations, including five presidential races, and raises questions about his future in politics following his reconciliation with President William Ruto.
In taking over the position from Moussa Faki of Chad, Youssouf will lead the AU after a series of dramatic voting challenges, suggesting possible shifts in regional support dynamics. The outcome is thought to reflect favor from certain blocs, notably South Africa and Francophone countries, likely allied by language, culture, and religion.
Mohamoud Ali Youssouf’s election as AU Commission Chairperson underscores a pronounced shift in African political dynamics, facilitated by strategic voting alliances and campaign tactics. Raila Odinga’s defeat marks another setback in his political career, with implications for his future engagements in Kenyan and continental politics. Youssouf’s leadership will influence the trajectory of the AU, especially regarding relationships within the African bloc and its diplomatic engagements globally.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
