The African Union Commission elections on February 16, 2025, in Addis Ababa, saw Mahmoud Youssif elected as Chairperson and Malika Salma Haddadi as Deputy Chairperson. Political maneuvering marked the elections, including Egypt’s unexpected withdrawal of support for Haddadi. Observers indicate that Youssif faces significant challenges, particularly regarding crises in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as the summit addressed relevant issues for Africa’s future.
On February 16, 2025, significant political maneuvering accompanied the elections of the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) during a continental summit in Addis Ababa. Mahmoud Youssif was elected as the new Chairperson, with Malika Salma Haddadi serving as his Deputy. The two were sworn in by the General Assembly, marking a transition of leadership from Moussa Faki of Chad after an eight-year tenure.
Following the election, President Ismaïl Guelleh of Djibouti expressed his commitment to enhancing cooperation and solidarity among African nations. Deputy Chairperson Malika Salma Haddadi highlighted Algeria’s rising influence in African affairs, declaring that “Algeria is the heart of Africa.” Observers suggest that Youssef faces a challenging term due to escalating crises in regions such as Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Tensions surfaced during the election as Algeria criticized Egypt for an unexpected shift in support regarding the Deputy Chairperson position. An Algerian diplomat disclosed that Egypt had initially pledged support for Haddadi but later presented its own candidate, Hanan Morsi, who ultimately lost the vote. The Egyptian delegation’s disappointment was evident following Morsi’s defeat.
Kenyan candidate Raila Odinga conceded to Mahmoud Youssif, expressing disappointment in his country’s inability to secure the AU’s leadership. Odinga acknowledged Kenya’s aim for a diplomatic victory and stated, “I am not happy with the outcome, but I will return to my country.” Djibouti’s Youssif achieved a comeback victory, securing 33 votes in the final rounds against his Kenyan competitor.
Host nation Ethiopia and other countries expressed their support for the newly elected AU Commission leaders. The Ethiopian Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to assist the new leadership in advancing the African agenda. The 38th African Union Summit emphasized the ongoing conflicts in Sudan and the DRC, centering discussions on the theme of “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
The recent elections of the African Union Commission have been characterized by significant political shifts and intense rivalries. The election of Mahmoud Youssif and Malika Salma Haddadi signifies a new leadership era, with particular emphasis on cooperation and addressing pressing continental issues. The challenges ahead require unity and collaboration among member states to foster peace and development in Africa.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
