A décisive turning point for the African Union: Conviction vs opportunism

 Africa stands at a historic crossroads, and the election of the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission encapsulates critical stakes. As the continent seeks to assert its role in a rapidly changing world, this election transcends mere electoral dynamics , it raises a fundamental question about the future of the organization. Between Djibouti's principled candidacy and Kenya's ostentatious campaign, Africa must choose.

The candidacy of Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, presented by Djibouti, is marked by depth, seriousness, and a clear vision for the continent. With nearly two decades of experience as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Youssouf offers more than empty rhetoric. His campaign is built on a structured plan focused on key priorities such as peace, economic integration, and climate change mitigation. His mastery of diplomatic intricacies, inclusive approach, and consensus-driven method position him as a true project leader rather than a mere candidate.

Opposing him is Raila Odinga, backed by Kenya's political machinery, relying more on media prominence than a genuine vision for the African Union. While the scale of his campaign lavish travel and impressive logistics may dazzle, it lacks substantive proposals to address the continent's specific challenges.

Even more concerning, Odinga’s campaign reflects an attempt to consolidate Kenyan hegemony at the expense of the collective ideals of the Union. With the active support of President William Ruto, Odinga’s candidacy appears driven more by national calculations than a sincere desire to serve Africa. Does the African Union need a Chairperson whose actions are influenced by local political ambitions?

In contrast, Djibouti’s candidacy is rooted in values of cooperation and mutual respect. Small in size but significant in its diplomatic role, Djibouti has proven its ability to build bridges in a region often marked by tensions. The country, free from expansionist ambitions, offers leadership focused on collective goals, embodied by a competent and respected figure.

Undeniably, the 2024 election is much more than a contest between two individuals. It is a choice between two visions: an African Union boldly facing the future and ready to tackle the challenges of the century, or an organization mired in narrow national interests and electoral opportunism.

Africa needs leadership founded on conviction, expertise, and a clear vision not superficial displays. Supporting Mahamoud Ali Youssouf would give the continent a chance to reaffirm the values of solidarity, cooperation, and collective ambition that have always been at the heart of the Pan-African project. This election is more than a vote, it is an opportunity to steer the African Union toward strong, coherent, and forward-looking governance.

In this context, where state rivalries and personal ambitions risk obscuring the true stakes, member states must demonstrate clarity of vision. This election should be a chance to refocus the organization on its essential priorities. With his unwavering commitment to multilateralism, mastery of continental issues, and ability to unite around an ambitious yet pragmatic agenda, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf embodies the choice for renewal. As the continent faces complex challenges, prioritizing visionary and inclusive leadership is not only necessary it is imperative.

Given today’s realities marked by security crises, economic transformations, and climate threats the African Union must be strengthened to effectively meet the needs of its citizens. The 2024 election must serve as a decisive turning point: reinforcing the Union’s legitimacy, clarifying its objectives, and asserting its influence in a multipolar world. By supporting a solid candidate like Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, AU members will lay the foundation for a shared future built on unity and progress. The choice is clear: competence and vision must prevail over appearances and personal calculations.

Finally, the February 2024 election for the Chairperson of the African Union Commission is much more than a political event it is a historic opportunity to reshape the continent’s destiny. Faced with multiple challenges requiring collective responses and concerted actions, Africa cannot afford to select leadership driven by spectacle or narrow national strategies. Supporting Mahamoud Ali Youssouf offers member states the chance to reaffirm a Pan-African vision based on cooperation, solidarity, and innovation. His candidacy is not just that of one man but of an ambitious project for Africa, grounded in expertise, experience, and pragmatic methods. This decisive moment calls for a clear choice: to unite the continent under a banner of shared progress and resist the illusions of fleeting opportunism. Africa cannot wait it needs leadership driven by conviction to build its future starting today. #UAC