Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti won the African Union Commission chairmanship by defeating Raila Odinga of Kenya. He received 33 votes, ensuring a two-thirds majority. Selma Malika of Algeria was elected as the Deputy Chairperson. Youssouf’s term will confront significant challenges, including youth unemployment and terrorism in the Sahel.
In a significant election held in Addis Ababa, Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf triumphed over Kenya’s Raila Odinga to take the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission. Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti’s foreign minister since 2005, secured 33 votes, surpassing the two-thirds majority needed to win the seat, succeeding Moussa Faki Mahamat from Chad, who held the position for the past term.
Youssouf’s election comes alongside that of Algeria’s Selma Malika, who was chosen as Deputy AU Chairperson. The AU publicly congratulated Malika via social media, emphasizing that her victory reflects the faith placed in her leadership abilities and commitment to public service.
Youssouf’s term as Chairperson will span four years, during which he will address crucial issues affecting the continent, such as youth unemployment, terrorism, and ongoing military instability, particularly in the Sahel region. His leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in navigating these challenges facing Africa.
In summary, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s victory in the AU Commission chairmanship marks a new leadership era for the African Union. He is set to tackle pressing continental issues over his four-year term, while Selma Malika’s election as Deputy Chairperson bolsters leadership within the AU. The collective efforts of both leaders will be crucial in addressing the continent’s pressing challenges.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
