The African Union (AU) prepares for a pivotal leadership transition as the race for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship heats up.
With key contenders like Raila Odinga and Mahmoud Ali Youssouf vying for the position, this election will shape Africa’s future on the global stage.
With the February 2025 election fast approaching, candidates are positioning themselves to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat, whose leadership since 2017 has seen notable achievements, including Africa’s inclusion in the G20 and progress with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This election will determine who steers the AU in addressing the continent’s complex challenges.
Regional Rotation and Eligibility
The AU’s principle of regional rotation governs the election, ensuring equitable representation. For the 2025 election, the Eastern region can contest for the AUC Chairmanship, while the Northern region is eligible for the Deputy Chairperson position.
Only candidates from member states free from AU sanctions can participate, ensuring credible and compliant leadership.
Key Candidates
- Raila Odinga (Kenya)
A former Prime Minister of Kenya, Odinga has decades of political experience and an international reputation. Seen as a symbol of regional integration and stability, he has gained strong support, particularly from Tanzania and the East African Community (EAC).
His campaign focuses on economic integration, governance reforms, and amplifying Africa’s voice on the global stage.
- Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti)
As Djibouti’s long-serving Foreign Affairs Minister, Youssouf brings significant diplomatic expertise, particularly in the Horn of Africa. His campaign emphasizes strengthening the AU’s financial autonomy and its role in peace and security. Youssouf is leveraging Djibouti’s strategic importance in global trade as a cornerstone of his platform.
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- Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar)
Though less prominent than Odinga and Youssouf, the Malagasy candidate seeks to represent small island states and Southern Africa’s unique interests. His campaign highlights the need for inclusive policies addressing the challenges of smaller nations.
- Anil Kumarsingh Gayan (Mauritius)
Mauritius’s former Foreign Affairs Minister was initially a contender but has dropped out of the race, leaving three strong candidates in contention.
Critical Challenges for the Next Chairperson
- Economic Integration
The AfCFTA, with its $2.5 trillion market, holds immense potential for transforming Africa’s economy. However, challenges such as non-tariff barriers and uneven implementation persist.
The next Chairperson must accelerate member states’ compliance with trade protocols to realize the AfCFTA’s full benefits.
- Silencing the Guns
The AU’s flagship peace initiative aims to end conflicts, yet instability persists in regions like the Sahel and Central Africa.
Addressing these crises will require robust conflict-resolution mechanisms and enhanced regional cooperation.
- Governance and Leadership
Recent political instability, marked by coups in West Africa, has raised questions about the AU’s credibility. The incoming Chairperson must champion democracy and work toward resolving intra-continental disputes.
- Africa’s Global Voice
Under Mahamat, Africa secured a permanent seat in the G20, but more efforts are needed to strengthen the continent’s representation in global governance. Building on this achievement will be a priority for the new Chairperson.
Campaign Dynamics and Outlook
Regional alliances and political alignments will shape the outcome as the contest unfolds.
Raila Odinga is viewed as a frontrunner, benefiting from the Eastern Bloc’s backing and reputation as a visionary leader.
However, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s strong credentials and Djibouti’s strategic importance present formidable competition.
Richard Randriamandrato’s campaign may appeal to nations advocating for smaller states’ interests, though his lower profile limits his chances against the two leading candidates.
The February 2025 election will determine the next AUC Chairperson and set the agenda for tackling critical issues such as climate adaptation, youth employment, and the development of self-reliance.
Engage in the Debate
Watch the Mjadala Afrika debate this Friday, December 13, 2024, to gain deeper insights into the candidates’ visions.
Broadcast in the AU’s six official languages (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swahili), the debate will air live from the African Union Headquarters from 19:00 to 21:00 EAT (16:00 to 18:00 GMT).
This election marks a turning point for Africa’s leadership on the global stage.
The chosen Chairperson will inherit a mix of challenges and opportunities with the potential to shape the continent’s trajectory for years to come.