The African Union Commission elections on February 16, 2025, in Addis Ababa resulted in Mahmoud Youssif’s election as Chairperson and Malika Salma Haddadi as Deputy Chairperson. The elections were characterized by political shifts, particularly regarding Algeria and Egypt’s support for candidates. Youssif’s leadership faces challenges, notably from ongoing crises in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, while several nations pledged their commitment to support the new commission leadership.
The African Union Commission (AUC) elections held on February 16, 2025, in Addis Ababa were marked by intense political maneuvering and strategic alliances during the voting process. Mahmoud Youssif was elected as Chairperson, with Malika Salma Haddadi as Deputy Chairperson, both swearing in before the General Assembly of African Heads of State and Government. Youssif will officially take office on March 15 for a four-year term, succeeding Moussa Faki, who has served for eight years.
Post-election, Djiboutian President Ismaïl Guelleh extended an offer of collaboration aimed at strengthening unity among African nations. Deputy Chairperson Haddadi highlighted Algeria’s growing influence in African matters, asserting that “Algeria is the heart of Africa.” The new leadership faces significant challenges, particularly amid escalating crises in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as broader issues of poverty and conflict on the continent.
The elections saw a significant last-minute shift where Algeria criticized Egypt for withdrawing its support for Haddadi, instead nominating Hanan Morsi as its own candidate. This unexpected maneuver led to disappointment within the Egyptian delegation after Morsi was defeated by her Algerian counterpart. Subsequently, Morsi’s inability to secure sufficient votes highlighted the competitive political landscape within the AU.
In a moment of sportsmanship, Kenyan candidate Raila Odinga conceded defeat to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssif. Odinga expressed disappointment in the outcome, stating, “I am not happy with the outcome, but I will return to my country.” Following the elections, Kenyan President William Ruto acknowledged the pivotal role of elections in shaping the future of the continent, reaffirming support for Africa’s advancement despite the loss of their candidate.
Mahmoud Youssef’s election marked a notable comeback, having secured 33 votes in the decisive final rounds after initially trailing. Many nations, including Ethiopia, voiced their support for the new leadership, with the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry committing to backing the AU leaders throughout their terms. The ongoing African Union Summit emphasized critical issues, including the necessity for justice and reparations for Africans and people of African descent, alongside the urgent discussions concerning the conflicts in Sudan and the DRC.
The elections of the African Union Commission signify critical leadership changes as Mahmoud Youssif and Malika Salma Haddadi step into their respective roles. The political landscape of the AU remains dynamic, with significant challenges ahead, particularly in conflict-ridden areas. The backing from member states like Djibouti and Ethiopia underscores a commitment towards unity and progress across Africa, while the implications of these elections will resonate through the continent’s future enhancement efforts.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
