Mahmoud Ali Youssouf's Stance on Israel and African Unity
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the Foreign Minister of Djibouti and a candidate for the Chairperson of the African Commission, has made it clear that his position is to exclude Israel from the African Union's partnerships. He emphasized that the African Union will not entertain relationships with countries that violate the legal and moral standards upheld by African nations. This statement reflects a broader sentiment among members of the Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League who support his candidacy. Youssouf stated, "This is our position and we will not give it up," highlighting his commitment to fostering unity and rejecting divisions within the continent.
Youssouf's comments come as he calls for a reassessment of the African Union's relations with certain countries, which he described as "unhealthy." He argues that partnerships lacking a foundation in international law are destined for failure, reinforcing his advocacy for principled diplomacy within the African Union.
Election Context and Competitors
The upcoming election for the Chairperson of the African Commission will take place during the African Summit next February. Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti's Foreign Minister since 2005, is competing against prominent figures such as Raila Odinga, the leader of the Kenyan opposition, Anil Gayan, a former foreign minister from Mauritius, and a former minister of finance and economy from Madagascar. The election process will be conducted via secret ballot, requiring the winning candidate to secure a two-thirds majority among member states. Notably, six countries currently suspended from the Union will not participate in this voting process.
