Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed strong disapproval of President William Ruto’s remarks following Raila Odinga’s loss in the African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson election. Djibouti’s Director of Communication, Ambassador Moussa Mohamed Omar, responded to Ruto’s comments after Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti was elected as the new Chairperson, defeating Kenya’s Odinga during the AU summit in Addis Ababa. Thirty-three heads of state voted in favor of Youssouf.

President Ruto, disappointed by the outcome, remarked that Africa had “lost an opportunity” by not electing Odinga, whom he referred to as “the finest of our continent.” Ambassador Omar rejected Ruto’s statement, calling it dishonest and accusing him of tying AU decisions to Kenyan domestic politics. He emphasized that Mahmoud’s election was based on merit and consensus, adding that Africa deserved better than Odinga.


Despite the setback, Ruto praised Odinga’s campaign efforts, highlighting his dedication and availability throughout the process. “Baba made me very proud,” Ruto said, noting that Odinga had represented Kenya with distinction and united the country during his campaign.


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The diplomatic fallout from the election reflects the high stakes involved in AU leadership. While Kenya had lobbied hard for Odinga, the vote suggested a broader consensus in favor of Djibouti’s candidate. Ruto remained optimistic about Kenya’s future role in continental leadership, stating that Odinga’s campaign laid a foundation for future engagements.


With Mahmoud Ali Youssouf set to lead the AU Commission, attention will shift to how he addresses Africa’s pressing challenges and fulfills the expectations of the heads of state who supported him.


Kenya, on the other hand, will need to adjust its diplomatic strategies after this loss. Whether the election will strain relations between Djibouti and Kenya remains to be seen, but the charged discourse following the vote highlights the complexities and intensity of African diplomacy and leadership contests.