Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship was derailed a week before the election due to strategic financial and diplomatic efforts by Arab and French-backed nations.
Led by Egypt, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, Arab nations mobilized support against Raila, while France rallied Francophone countries behind Djibouti’s Ali Mohammed Youssouf. The Assembly of Islamic Nations also endorsed Youssouf, further securing his victory with 33 votes over Raila.
Despite Kenya’s diplomatic efforts, shifting regional allegiances and financial incentives played a key role in Djibouti’s triumph, highlighting the complexities of African Union politics.
