The African Union Commission (AUC) has a new leader, and it’s not Raila Odinga. In a tightly contested election at the AU Summit in Addis Ababa on February 15, 2025, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf emerged victorious, securing the prestigious post of AUC Chairperson. Meanwhile, former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who had confidently thrown his hat into the ring, suffered yet another high-profile electoral defeat—something he’s undoubtedly quite familiar with by now.
Youssouf’s Victory and What It Means for Africa
Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005, brings decades of diplomatic experience to the role. He will take over from Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, who has led the AUC since 2017. Youssouf’s extensive tenure in international relations, including serving as Djibouti’s ambassador to Egypt, made him a strong candidate for the position. His leadership comes at a critical time as Africa grapples with pressing issues such as regional conflicts, economic development, and political integration.
The Defeat That Wasn’t Shocking
Raila Odinga, known for his ability to lose elections with remarkable consistency, was among the high-profile contenders for the AUC Chairmanship. Competing against seasoned diplomats like Madagascar’s former Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato, Odinga once again failed to convince African leaders that he was the right man for the job. Perhaps, after numerous failed attempts at both domestic and continental leadership, Odinga might consider an alternative career—something far away from ballot boxes.
Despite his political experience and Pan-African rhetoric, Odinga’s bid faced resistance from several African leaders who viewed him as too controversial and polarizing. His loss only reinforced the perception that he remains an expert at political campaigns but not necessarily at securing victories.
What Lies Ahead for the African Union
As Youssouf prepares to assume office, his priorities will include strengthening African unity, addressing regional security challenges, and pushing forward the AU’s economic integration agenda. With growing instability in regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Sahel, his leadership will be tested from day one. The international community will be closely watching how he navigates these complex issues.
Meanwhile, Odinga will have to return to the drawing board and figure out his next move. But given his track record, we can confidently predict that he’ll be back in another high-stakes political contest soon enough—because, let’s face it, losing elections is practically a hobby at this point.
