What's happened
Candidates Raila Odinga, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, and Richard Randriamandrato debated in Addis Ababa for the African Union Chairperson position. They emphasized the need for Africa to secure permanent UN Security Council seats and improve regional security and trade. The election is set for February 2025.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to AP News, the candidates stressed the necessity of two permanent UN Security Council seats for Africa, with Raila Odinga stating it is 'a must for Africa.' In contrast, All Africa highlighted Odinga's 10-point plan aimed at accelerating Africa's progress, emphasizing the need for a solutions-oriented approach to the continent's challenges. The debate reflects a broader concern about Africa's representation in global governance, as noted by Guterres, who called the lack of permanent seats 'an injustice.' This sentiment underscores the urgency of the candidates' proposals as they seek to rally support ahead of the February election.
How we got here
The African Union is preparing for elections to replace Chairperson Moussa Faki, who has served two terms. The candidates are advocating for reforms and greater representation for Africa in global governance, particularly at the UN.
More on these topics
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Raila Amolo Odinga is a Kenyan politician who served as the Prime Minister of Kenya from 2008 to 2013. He is assumed as the Leader of Opposition in Kenya since 2013 as the New Constitution of Kenya does not prescribe for such a position.
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The United Nations Security Council is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations, charged with ensuring international peace and security, recommending the admission of new UN members to the General Assembly, and approving any changes to the UN