Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti has been elected chairperson of the African Union Commission, defeating Raila Odinga of Kenya with 33 votes, securing the required two-thirds majority. He succeeds Moussa Faki Mahamat for a four-year term, facing significant challenges in areas such as youth employment and security. Selma Malika from Algeria has been elected Deputy Chairperson of the AU Commission.
In a significant electoral victory, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti has triumphed over Raila Odinga of Kenya to assume the chairmanship of the African Union Commission. The election, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, saw Mr. Youssouf, age 59 and serving as Djibouti’s foreign minister since 2005, secure 33 votes, thereby achieving the two-thirds majority necessary for his appointment.
Mr. Youssouf will succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad in the leadership role for a four-year term. The current challenges facing the African continent include youth unemployment, terrorism, and ongoing military coups within the Sahel region, which will now fall under Mr. Youssouf’s purview.
During the same election process, Selma Malika from Algeria was elected as the Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission. The African Union congratulated her on this achievement via social media, stating, “Congratulations to H.E. Selma Malika [Algeria] on her election as incoming AUC Deputy Chairperson. Your victory is a reflection of the trust and confidence placed in your leadership, vision, and dedication to serving the people.”
The African Union Commission is set to face various socio-political obstacles under Mr. Youssouf’s leadership, necessitating strong strategic responses from his administration. His experience in foreign affairs will be crucial as he embarks on this challenging role.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s election as the chairperson of the African Union Commission marks a pivotal moment for Djibouti and showcases the confidence in his leadership capabilities. His administration will need to address critical issues facing Africa today, while Deputy Chairperson Selma Malika’s election further strengthens the AU’s leadership. The success of both leaders will depend on their ability to navigate the continent’s complex challenges over the next four years.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
