Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has been elected as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission after a competitive election at the 38th Ordinary Summit in Addis Ababa. His victory with 33 votes signifies a diplomatic achievement for Djibouti and the growing influence of smaller nations. Youssouf, a long-standing Foreign Minister, is expected to focus on crucial issues like security and economic integration as he assumes his new role.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Djibouti’s veteran Foreign Minister, has been elected the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) during the 38th Ordinary Summit in Addis Ababa. His election, achieved with 33 votes in a multi-round contest, is a significant milestone in Djibouti’s diplomacy and marks a transition in the leadership of the African Union.
The election for the AUC Chairperson was highly competitive, involving candidates from Kenya, Djibouti, and Madagascar. In the first round, former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga garnered 20 votes, while Youssouf and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato received 18 and 10 votes, respectively. Youssouf gained traction in subsequent rounds, ultimately surpassing the required majority in the final round.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has held the position of Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005. His extensive diplomatic tenure has been marked by efforts to strengthen regional relationships, mediate conflicts, enhance Djibouti’s influence as a diplomatic hub, and promote African economic integration and infrastructure development. His election is expected to maintain the AU’s focus on these critical areas.
Youssouf’s ascension to AUC Chairperson represents a diplomatic victory for Djibouti, reflecting the growing authority of smaller nations within the African Union, traditionally led by larger powers. His term is pivotal as the AU faces pressing issues related to peace, security, and economic initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
With a solid background in diplomacy, Youssouf is anticipated to navigate the AU through complex security challenges and advocate for Africa’s interests on global platforms. His official tenure at the AUC will begin later this year, with expectations high for the impact of his leadership on the continent’s future.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s election as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission is both a diplomatic victory for Djibouti and a significant shift within the AU’s leadership dynamics. His experience and commitment to regional diplomacy are expected to guide the organization through critical issues like security, economic integration, and institutional reforms. Youssouf’s leadership will be pivotal as the AU addresses contemporary challenges and seeks to enhance its global standing.
Original Source: addisinsight.net
