Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a closely contested election, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the candidate from Djibouti, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) after a grueling seventh round of voting. With a total of 33 votes in his favor, Youssouf’s victory marks a significant milestone for both Djibouti and the African Union as a whole.
The election, held in Addis Ababa, saw Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emerge victorious after a series of intense rounds that showcased the diverse candidates vying for leadership of the continent’s premier political and economic organization. His opponent, Raila Odinga also ran a commendable race, earning respect and admiration from his peers and supporters alike. Raila dropped out of the race in round 6 where he garnered 22 votes against 26 votes in favor of the Djibouti candidate.
Mr. Ali, who previously served as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, brings a wealth of experience in diplomacy and international relations to the AUC. Known for his commitment to regional stability and African unity, he has been an advocate for economic cooperation and development across the continent. His election is seen as a reinforcement of the African Union’s goals to prioritize peace, security, and sustainable development in the region.
The African Union Commission plays a crucial role in guiding the policies and initiatives of the African Union, and Mahmoud’s leadership is expected to focus on addressing urgent issues such as climate change, health crises, and economic disparities among member states. His election is widely viewed as a step towards fostering stronger ties among African nations and enhancing the continent’s voice on the global stage.
As Mahmoud assumes his new role, the African Union looks forward to a new chapter under his leadership, with hopes that he will champion the values of unity, progress, and resilience that are essential for Africa’s development.
