Ruto meets AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki in Addis Ababa
President William Ruto has met with outgoing African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ahead of a crucial leadership transition at the continental body.
During the meeting on February 13, 2025, President Ruto acknowledged the African Union’s growing role in addressing the continent’s political, economic, and security challenges.
He commended Faki for his leadership over the past eight years and wished him success in his future endeavours.
“The African Union has increasingly become a strong voice for the continent and Member States. We will continue revamping our organisation to make it fit for purpose to effectively deal with political, economic, and security challenges. Met African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Congratulated him for his sterling role at the Commission in the past eight years. Wished him success in his future endeavours,” Ruto wrote on his X account.
Ruto’s arrival in Addis Ababa
The meeting took place as African leaders gathered for the Extraordinary African Union Summit, where they will elect Faki’s successor.
President Ruto joined Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi, who has been spearheading diplomatic efforts to support Kenya’s candidate, Raila Odinga.
First Lady Rachel Ruto accompanied the President to Addis Ababa, where she will participate in the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) General Assembly.
In a statement posted on her X account on February 13, 2025, the First Lady underscored the significance of the AU Summit in shaping Africa’s future, particularly in advancing women’s leadership and rights.
“I arrived in Addis Ababa today, accompanying the President, Dr. William Ruto, for this important gathering. The AU General Assembly is a pivotal moment for Africa, where African leaders gather to shape the future of our continent. As we convene in Ethiopia, I am honoured to join fellow First Ladies of Africa in championing women’s leadership and rights, a mission that will be the focal point of the 29th OAFLAD General Assembly,” Rachel Ruto said.
AUC elections
The AUC chairperson election features three contenders: Kenya’s Raila Odinga, Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssouf, and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato.
The African Union has established a two-phase election process, with the initial phase involving the election of commissioners by the AU Executive Council.
The decisive vote for the chairperson position will take place during the second phase on February 15-16, 2025, when the Assembly of Heads of State and Government convenes.
