Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s victory as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) was officially confirmed during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government. He will be taking over from Moussa Faki Mahamat, the outgoing chair and former Prime Minister of Chad, who served two four-year terms.
Traditionally, the AUC chairperson role has been held by individuals from Western, Central, and Southern regions. However, the AU Executive Council has decided that it is East Africa’s turn to lead the commission.
Youssouf emerged victorious after five rounds of voting, securing 33 votes in the final round. He defeated formidable opponents like Raila Odinga, former Kenyan Prime Minister, and Richard Randriamandrato, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar. His win came as a surprise, as Odinga was initially expected to clinch the position. Odinga’s failure to present a clear vision within the allotted time reportedly impacted his chances, as he spent most of his time discussing the history of Pan-Africanism and African solidarity before being cut off by the timer.
In his acceptance speech, Youssouf outlined his vision to drive transformation and prioritize Africa’s interests on the global stage. With a diplomatic career spanning over three decades, he has held various key positions, including leading Djibouti’s Arab Affairs Department, serving as ambassador to Egypt, and holding the office of minister of foreign affairs since 2005.
During the 2024 AUC Mjadala Afrika Leadership Debate, Youssouf emphasized the importance of peace, security, collaborative conflict resolution, improved governance, and human rights. He also highlighted his priorities for the AU, including strengthening the AU’s Peace and Security Council, operationalizing the African Standby Force, ensuring stable financing for the union, boosting intra-African trade, and promoting the free movement of goods and people across the continent.
Meanwhile, Angolan President João Lourenço has assumed the role of Chairperson of the African Union, a position that rotates among heads of state. The AU is now poised for a new chapter under the leadership of Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, as he takes on the responsibility of guiding the continent towards greater unity, peace, and prosperity.
