African Union Commission: A Setback for Kenya as Raila Odinga Loses Continental Vote
In a dramatic turn of events, Kenya’s Raila Odinga has faced a significant defeat in his bid to lead the African Union Commission (AUC). The loss has been described as a blow to Kenya’s aspirations on the continental stage, as Mahmoud Youssouf of Djibouti emerged victorious after a fiercely contested election. This article delves into the details of the election, the voting process, the candidates’ campaigns, and the political implications of Raila Odinga’s loss for Kenya and the broader African Union.
Raila Odinga’s Defeat in the AUC Chairperson Race
Raila Odinga, a seasoned Kenyan politician and former Prime Minister, had aimed for the prestigious position of the chairperson of the African Union Commission. However, despite a long campaign and widespread support across the continent, Odinga lost out to Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Youssouf. On February 15, 2025, the final results of the election were announced, confirming that Youssouf had secured 33 votes, surpassing the two-thirds majority required to win.
The election was held during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union’s General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The vote was a pivotal moment for African diplomacy, as the role of the AUC Chairperson is crucial in steering the continent’s collective vision, especially with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 focusing on economic integration, peace, and security.
The Voting Process: A Tense Battle for Votes
The AUC election process was marked by a series of intense rounds of secret voting among the heads of state and government. A total of 49 African heads of state participated in the election, with each candidate needing 33 votes to win. Raila Odinga initially led in the first round with 20 votes, while Youssouf garnered 18 votes and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar received 10 votes.
The voting process continued in multiple rounds, with candidates eliminated if they failed to meet the required threshold. By the third round, Youssouf began gaining momentum, securing 23 votes compared to Raila’s 20. The trend continued through the rounds, with Raila losing ground while Youssouf’s support base strengthened. In the decisive seventh round, Youssouf clinched victory, securing 33 votes and defeating Raila, who had been eliminated in the sixth round.
Mahmoud Youssouf’s Victory: A New Dawn for Djibouti and the AU
Mahmoud Youssouf’s victory marks a significant moment in the history of the African Union. The 59-year-old diplomat from Djibouti will now lead the African Union Commission, succeeding Moussa Faki, the former prime minister of Chad. Youssouf brings over three decades of diplomatic experience to the role and has already articulated his vision for transforming Africa.
In his campaign, Youssouf emphasized the need for greater integration, peace, and security across the continent. He also highlighted the importance of responsible leadership and governance, underscoring the need for institutional reforms within the AU to enhance its capacity to address Africa’s challenges effectively. Youssouf’s vision aligns with the goals of the AU’s Agenda 2063, which aims to create a prosperous, united, and peaceful Africa.
Political Reactions to Raila Odinga’s Loss
The announcement of Raila Odinga’s defeat sent shockwaves through Kenya, with many politicians and citizens expressing disappointment. President William Ruto, who had publicly supported Odinga’s candidacy, was quick to issue a statement of consolation. In his message, Ruto thanked the African Union member states for considering Raila Odinga’s vision and praised his commitment to the continent’s transformation.
“While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Right Honourable Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for according him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation,” Ruto said in a statement.
The Role of the Deputy Chairperson in the AUC
In addition to electing the AUC Chairperson, the heads of state also voted for the position of Deputy Chairperson. According to the rotational principle adopted by the AU Executive Council, the AUC chairperson was to come from East Africa, while the deputy chairperson would be selected from North Africa. The election results saw Selma Haddadi of Algeria appointed as the Deputy Chairperson, marking another significant development for the AU leadership.
While Youssouf will now oversee the AU’s agenda, Haddadi will work closely with him to ensure the success of the African Union’s initiatives. The leadership duo is expected to play a pivotal role in guiding the continent’s diplomatic, economic, and social integration.
Implications for Kenya and Africa’s Future
Raila Odinga’s loss is not just a personal defeat; it carries broader implications for Kenya’s influence within the African Union. Kenya had hoped that Odinga’s election to the AUC chairmanship would elevate its status on the continent and offer an opportunity to champion African unity and economic progress. Despite the loss, Kenya remains committed to supporting the new leadership and contributing to the ongoing work of the African Union.
President Ruto emphasized that the AUC election was not about individuals or nations, but about Africa’s collective future. He expressed confidence in the AU’s leadership under Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi, noting that the future of Africa remains bright despite the setback for Kenya. “This election was not about individuals or nations, it was about Africa’s future. That future remains bright and, together, we will continue working for a united, prosperous, and influential Africa on the global stage,” Ruto stated.
Reactions from Across Africa
Across the continent, the reaction to Raila Odinga’s loss has been mixed. While some Kenyan citizens expressed their frustration and disappointment, many others offered words of encouragement. Kenyan Member of Parliament Moses Kuria lamented that “it is Africa which has lost,” highlighting the significance of Odinga’s experience and leadership potential.
At the same time, leaders from other African nations congratulated Youssouf on his victory. Djibouti’s win is seen as a positive development for the country, which will now play a more prominent role in continental affairs. The support garnered by Youssouf during the election underscores his diplomatic clout and vision for the future of Africa.
The Road Ahead for the African Union
As Mahmoud Youssouf steps into his new role as Chairperson of the African Union Commission, the focus will now shift to the implementation of the African Union’s ambitious Agenda 2063. Youssouf has promised to build on the AU’s existing initiatives, particularly in areas like peace and security, infrastructure development, and economic integration.
The African Union faces numerous challenges, including political instability in some member states, poverty, and underdevelopment. However, with the right leadership, there is potential for the AU to steer the continent toward a more prosperous future. Youssouf’s leadership will be closely scrutinized, with many looking to see how he navigates complex regional issues and fosters stronger cooperation among African nations.
Raila Odinga’s defeat in the AUC chairperson election represents a significant moment in Kenya’s diplomatic history. While the loss is undoubtedly a setback, it also provides an opportunity for reflection and growth. The election of Mahmoud Youssouf as the new chairperson offers a fresh perspective for the African Union, and Kenya remains committed to supporting the new leadership.
The future of Africa is inextricably linked to the success of the African Union, and with the leadership of Youssouf and Haddadi, the continent has the potential to make significant strides toward its goals of unity, peace, and prosperity.
