Mahmoud Ali Youssef: A Strong Contender for the African Commission Chair
Mahmoud Ali Youssef, the Foreign Minister of Djibouti, is a prominent candidate for the position of Chairman of the African Commission. His campaign is gaining traction, supported by the Arab League, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the Francophone bloc. Youssef, who has served as Djibouti's Foreign Minister since 2005, emphasizes the need for enhanced African cooperation to address security challenges, particularly the ongoing crisis in Sudan. He advocates for closing borders to mercenaries and activating the African Standby Force to ensure peace and security across the continent.
Addressing Key Issues Facing Africa
During his campaign launch at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Youssef outlined his vision for the African Commission, focusing on peace, security, and the digital revolution. He believes that Africa's youth and talented researchers should play a crucial role in the continent's digital transformation. Youssef also stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in governance, and he is committed to reviewing relations with countries that violate shared legal and moral principles, particularly regarding the Palestinian cause.
Competitive Landscape and Future Prospects
Youssef faces stiff competition from former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga and former Madagascar Finance Minister Richard Randria. Analysts suggest that his multilingual abilities and diplomatic experience give him an edge, but Odinga's previous success in securing support from African nations poses a challenge. If elected, Youssef would be the first Arab representative to chair the African Commission, marking a significant milestone in the organization's history.
