Following the recently concluded Executive Council Ministerial meeting of the African Union (AU), significant decisions have been made regarding the regional rotation of the eight elective posts of the Senior Leadership of the AU Commission.
- Eastern Region Nominated for Chairperson Position: The Eastern region has been designated to submit candidates for the position of the Chairperson of the AU Commission.
- Northern Region Assigned Deputy Chairperson Position: The Northern region is tasked with submitting candidates for the Deputy Chairperson of the AU Commission. Both regions have the freedom to nominate male and female candidates. Notably, the gender of the elected Chairperson will determine the gender of the Deputy Chairperson.
- Western, Central, and Southern Regions Submit for Remaining Posts: The Western, Central, and Southern regions will collectively nominate candidates for the remaining six Commissioner positions. Gender balance is emphasized in this selection process. Re-election is also open for eligible candidates and posts.
The Executive Council’s decision underscores the AU’s commitment to regional representation and gender equality within its leadership structure.
To ensure transparency and credibility in the candidate selection process, a High-Level Panel of Eminent Africans will oversee the pre-selection phase. This panel will assess and shortlist candidates based on their qualifications and suitability for the respective positions.
This initiative aims to promote inclusivity and diversity within the AU Commission, reflecting the diverse perspectives and experiences of African nations across the continent.
As the process unfolds, anticipation grows regarding the composition of the new AU Commission leadership. The Executive Council’s decision marks a significant step forward in strengthening the AU’s capacity to address the multifaceted challenges facing the continent and advancing its collective agenda for peace, development, and prosperity.
