President William Ruto has congratulated the newly elected African Union Commission (AUC) leadership following the outcome of the AU election, where Kenya's candidate, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, was not successful. 

In a statement released on Saturday, February 15, he acknowledged the opportunity given to Raila to present his vision for the continent. 

"While the outcome of this election did not favour Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Right Honourable Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for giving him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation," he said. 

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Ruto further extended his congratulations to Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi, the newly elected Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, affirming Kenya's support for their leadership. 

"To their Excellencies Mahmoud Youssouf and Selma Haddadi, the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, I extend my sincere congratulations. You have the trust of the AU Assembly, and Kenya pledges her full support to you as you steer the Africa Union Commission to the next level," he said.  

Ruto further expressed optimism about the continent's potential and reiterated Kenya's commitment to fostering unity and prosperity across Africa. 

"This election was not about individuals or nations, it was about Africa’s future. That future remains bright and, together, we will continue working for a united, prosperous, and influential Africa on the global stage," he concluded.

Djibouti's Foreign Minister Youssouf was elected as the new Chairperson of the AUC in a closely contested election during the AU summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 

Youssouf will serve a four-year term, succeeding Moussa Faki of Chad, who has held the position since 2017.

The election process was rigorous, extending to seven rounds of voting.  

Initially, Raila led the first two rounds, securing 20 and 22 votes respectively, but Youssouf gained momentum in subsequent rounds, ultimately achieving the required 33 votes in the seventh round to clinch the chairmanship.