Raila Odinga Eliminated from African Union Commission Chairperson Race

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been eliminated in his bid to become the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), marking the end of his quest for Africa’s top diplomatic post.

In a highly contested election held on Saturday, Raila was knocked out in the sixth round of voting, paving the way for Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf to clinch victory in the seventh round. Youssouf secured 33 votes, surpassing the required majority, while Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato was eliminated earlier in the race.

Raila’s Bid Falls Short

Backed by Kenyan President William Ruto, Raila had launched an extensive campaign across Africa, securing endorsements from at least 21 countries before the election. He took an early lead in the first round with 20 votes and remained a strong contender through subsequent rounds.

However, by the third round, Youssouf overtook him with 23 votes against Raila’s 20, while Randriamandrato dropped out with just five votes. In the fourth round, Youssouf extended his lead to 25 votes, while Raila held onto 21. The pattern continued into the fifth round, where Raila retained 21 votes, but Youssouf increased his tally to 26.

In the decisive sixth round, Raila gained one more vote to reach 22, but Youssouf maintained his lead with 26, resulting in Raila’s elimination under the AUC election rules. The seventh round saw Youssouf emerge victorious with 33 votes, securing a four-year term with the possibility of re-election.

Kenya’s Second Loss at the AUC

This marks the second time Kenya has failed to secure the AUC chairmanship. In 2017, Kenya’s Amina Mohamed lost to Chad’s Moussa Faki, who served two terms. Kenya has historically faced challenges securing regional support, with Tanzania, Uganda, and Burundi abstaining or backing other candidates.

Despite Raila’s extensive campaign, the election outcome highlights the complex political dynamics within the African Union. Youssouf, Djibouti’s long-serving Foreign Minister, will now take over leadership of the AU Commission, overseeing key continental policies and initiatives for the next four years.

Looking Ahead

With Youssouf’s victory, Djibouti strengthens its position within the African Union, while Kenya reevaluates its continental diplomatic strategy. Raila’s elimination signals a shift in regional alliances, and Kenya will now have to navigate its role in the AU under new leadership.