Muslim bloc OIC endorses Djibouti's bid for AU Commission chair

Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has gained significant momentum in his campaign to become the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission for the 2025-2028 term.

In a communiqué issued after a meeting of foreign ministers last weekend, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)—a bloc representing nearly 30 African states—pledged its support for Youssouf’s candidacy.

The statement, released in Cameroon and seen by the Eastleigh Voice, emphasised the importance of Islamic representation in key international positions and underscored the principle of rotation among member states.

The communiqué stated, "Aware of the importance of the representation of Islamic states in various international posts, in accordance with the principle of rotation, and its significance for the member states and the OIC," before urging member states to support the candidacy of Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Republic of Djibouti) for the post of Chairperson of the African Union Commission for the period 2025-2028."

President William Ruto, Azimio leader Raila Odinga and other regional heads of state and leaders at State House, Nairobi during the unveiling of Kenya's AUC chair candidature on August 27, 2024. (Photo: PCS)

It also highlighted other candidates from OIC member states vying for international roles.

Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti's foreign minister since 2005, declared his intention to run for the AU's top seat in February 2025, ahead of the retirement of current Chair Moussa Faki of Chad.

With Faki set to retire next year, the race for his successor from the Eastern African region is heating up.

The OIC's backing of Youssouf positions him as a strong contender against notable rivals, including Kenya's Raila Odinga and the former foreign ministers of Mauritius and Madagascar.