AU: Qualifications for Chairmanship of the Continental Union bloc
During the AU Assembly session, member states voted to elect the Chairperson from among the nominated candidates.
Here’s an overview of how the African Union Chairperson is elected:
Nomination
Member states of the African Union may nominate candidates for the position of Chairperson.
Individual member states or regional blocs within the African Union can make these nominations.
Potential candidates typically have extensive experience in diplomacy, governance, and international affairs.
Full Selection Process
Once nominations are received, the selection process begins. This process frequently includes consultations among AU member states to assess the qualifications and suitability of the applicants.
Regional blocs may also play a role in supporting candidates from their own regions.
To be considered for this position, candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Law, International Relations, Economics, Diplomacy, Management, Business Administration, Political Science, Social Sciences, or a closely related field from a recognized institution.
Furthermore, a Ph.D. in Law, International Relations, Diplomacy, Management, Business Administration, Political Science, Social Sciences, or a closely related field from a reputable institution is preferred.
The candidate must also have a minimum of twenty (20) years of relevant professional and international experience, including at least ten (10) years in progressively senior leadership roles, preferably in an intergovernmental organization, national government/public service, international or regional institution.
AU Assembly election session
The AU Chairperson is elected at a session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government.
This session is usually held during an AU summit, where leaders from member countries meet to discuss key issues confronting the continent.
During the AU Assembly session, member states voted to elect the Chairperson from among the nominated candidates.
The voting process is a secret ballot, with a two-thirds majority of Member States required.
Official Appointment
Once elected, the newly elected Chairperson takes office and is officially appointed to serve a term as specified in the AU Constitutive Act.
The Chairperson’s term is typically four years long, with the possibility of being re-elected for a second term.
The chairperson reports to both the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government and the AU Executive Council.
AU Commission Chairperson’s Responsibilities
The Chairperson’s responsibilities include overall administration and financial oversight of the Commission, as well as promotion and popularisation of the AU’s objectives and performance enhancement.
He also consults and coordinates with key stakeholders such as Member States, Development Partners, and RECs; appoints and manages Commission staff; and serves as a depository for all AU and OAU treaties and legal instruments.
Moussa Faki, the current AU chairman, will not run in the next elections, scheduled for February 2025.
AU: Qualifications for Chairmanship of the Continental Union bloc
