The SADC has urged its member states to support Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar in the AUC chairperson elections. SADC confirmed that Randriamandrato is the only candidate from the region and emphasized the need for member support ahead of the elections. This decision aims to influence the election dynamics as prominent leaders gather in Ethiopia for the summit.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed its support for Richard Randriamandrato, the former Foreign Affairs Minister of Madagascar, in the upcoming African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson elections. In a formal communication from the SADC Secretariat, it was stated that Madagascar has officially requested support from the 16 member states for Randriamandrato’s candidacy. Due to time constraints, SADC determined that the existing letter would suffice without the need for an Extraordinary Council of Ministers meeting.
The SADC Secretariat highlighted that Randriamandrato is the only candidate shortlisted from the SADC region for the AUC Chairperson position. The letter, authored by SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi, encouraged all member states to endorse Randriamandrato, aligning with the directive from the Heads of State in August 2024, which required the Secretariat to monitor AUC elections and provide strategic insights.
Randriamandrato is set to compete against prominent figures, including Raila Odinga from Kenya and Mahamoud Ali Youssouf from Djibouti, in the elections scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa. The decision by SADC to rally behind Randriamandrato could significantly affect the dynamics of the election, introducing an element of competition among candidates. Heads of State have begun to arrive in Ethiopia for the African Union’s 38th Ordinary Summit, which will include the election of the new AUC Chairperson.
Among the early arrivals is President William Ruto of Kenya, who was accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto. Other notable presidents, such as Duma Boko from Botswana and Emmerson Mnangagwa from Zimbabwe, have also arrived to participate in what is expected to be one of the most competitive elections in the history of the African Union.
In summary, the Southern African Development Community has formally endorsed Richard Randriamandrato for the African Union Commission Chairperson’s election, reinforcing regional support. The upcoming elections are anticipated to be highly competitive, with Randriamandrato contending against formidable opponents. The endorsement by SADC may strategically shift the election dynamics as Heads of State convene to determine the leadership of the AU.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
