Djibouti has firmly responded to Kenya’s disappointment over the election of Mahmoud Ali Youssouf as the new Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission.
The reaction from Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs came after President William Ruto expressed dissatisfaction with the election outcome, stating that Africa had lost an opportunity to be served by the finest leader from the continent.
Ambassador Moussa Mohamed Omar, Djibouti’s Director of Communication at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, dismissed Ruto’s comments, accusing him of dishonesty in his assessment of the election.
He pointed out that thirty-three heads of state voted for Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, making it clear that the choice was legitimate and widely supported across the continent. He also suggested that the AU should not be held hostage by Kenya’s internal politics and took a swipe at Raila Odinga’s candidacy.
Ruto’s disappointment was evident as he openly declared that Raila was the best candidate for the position. He assured Kenyans that despite the loss, the country would continue to play an active role in Africa’s leadership.
While some in Kenya had expected Raila to secure the position, the final outcome signaled a need for the country to rethink its diplomatic strategy.
The election has sparked discussions about Kenya’s influence within the African Union and its diplomatic weight in continental affairs. Some observers believe that the loss could weaken Kenya’s standing in regional politics, while others argue that it presents an opportunity for the country to reassess its approach to African diplomacy.
The defeat has also raised questions about whether Kenya’s bid was adequately backed by the right alliances and whether the country miscalculated the political dynamics at play.
On the other hand, Djibouti’s win marks a significant achievement for Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who now faces the responsibility of steering the AU Commission through Africa’s pressing challenges.
His leadership will be closely watched, especially by those who supported his candidacy and those who opposed it. The expectations are high, and his ability to deliver on key continental issues will determine whether the AU made the right choice.
As the dust settles, Kenya will likely analyze the reasons behind the loss and how it can position itself better in future continental elections.
Djibouti will be keen to assert its leadership within the AU and prove that Mahmoud Ali Youssouf was indeed the best candidate for the job. The developments in the coming months will reveal the true impact of this election on both Kenya and Djibouti’s diplomatic standing in Africa.
