AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki Bids Farewell Ahead of Saturday Election
On February 12, 2025, African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Moussa Faki bid a heartfelt farewell to the African Union Executive Council, marking the end of his tenure ahead of the upcoming elections on Saturday, February 15. Faki, who has served as the AUC Chairperson, expressed his gratitude and emotional farewell during the 46th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council.
Faki’s Emotional Farewell
During the session, Faki, with a voice choked with emotion, shared that he would vacate office on March 15, 2025. He acknowledged the significance of the moment but reassured his colleagues that his term had come to a close. Despite the emotional moment, he confirmed, “I will have ended my term and I will not stay one day more.”
Faki’s parting remarks highlighted his commitment to the African Union and his hopes for the incoming leadership. He also emphasized the importance of the upcoming elections for the future direction of the Union.
A Look Ahead: The 38th Ordinary Assembly of Heads of State and Government
Moussa Faki is scheduled to present a final report to the 38th Ordinary Assembly of Heads of State and Government on Saturday, which will further mark the end of his leadership and set the stage for the election of new leadership within the Union.
Key Figures Present at the Farewell Address
Among those in attendance at Faki’s farewell address was Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, a member of the Executive Council, who is also running in the race to succeed Faki. Youssouf is vying against Kenya’s Raila Odinga, a major political figure and contender for the position.
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, was also present, demonstrating the significance of this session and the upcoming leadership transition within the AU.
Call for Elections in the Spirit of Brotherhood
In his opening statement, Mohamed Salem, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mauritania and Chair of the Executive Council, called for the elections to be held in the true African spirit of brotherhood and mutual cooperation. This appeal emphasizes the importance of unity and solidarity in the upcoming election, which will determine the new leadership of the African Union.
Election of New AU Commission Commissioners
Apart from electing a new Chairperson for the African Union Commission, the Council will also elect six other commissioners to oversee key sectors within the Union, including:
- Agriculture, Economic Development, and Education
- Infrastructure and Energy
- Political Affairs, Peace and Security
- Health
These elections are crucial for determining the strategic direction of the African Union in the coming years.
Looking to the Future: The Transition of Power
Moussa Faki’s departure marks the beginning of a crucial leadership transition within the African Union. The elections scheduled for Saturday, February 15, will not only decide Faki’s successor but also pave the way for the future leadership of the African continent.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership
Moussa Faki leaves behind a legacy of dedication to the African Union’s mission of unity, peace, and development. His farewell speech was an emotional reminder of the challenges and triumphs that have defined his tenure. As the African Union heads into a new chapter with fresh leadership, it remains to be seen who will carry forward Faki’s vision and continue the work of the Commission.
