Chadian Moussa Faki Mahamat received 51 of 55 African Union member states to win a second term as the head of the African Union’s (AU) Commission on Saturday.
He will be deputised by Monique Nsanzabaganwa, deputy governor of the National Bank of Rwanda. She defeated Uganda’s Prof Pamela Mbabazi and Djibouti’s Hasna Bakarak Daoud.
Dr Nsanzabagwana replaces Ghana’s Quartey Thomas Kwesi, who chose not to contest the seat for a second term.
For the first time in the history of the @_AfricanUnion, a candidate wins an absolutely majority of 51 votes out of 55 to retain the mandate of AUC Chairperson. @AUC_MoussaFaki is that man. pic.twitter.com/EMhlZVoQhq
— Ebba Kalondo (@EbbaKalondo) February 6, 2021
“Deeply humbled by the overwhelming and historic vote of confidence,” Faki tweeted.
Deeply humbled by the overwhelming and historic vote of confidence by AU Member States by voting 51 out 55 to extend my mandate at the helm of the AUC Commission for another 4 years. My congratulations to @mnsanzabaganwa who was elected as deputy Chairperson. Together we WILL. pic.twitter.com/vyf2tCbwSW
— Moussa Faki Mahamat (@AUC_MoussaFaki) February 6, 2021
Your steadfast vision,leadership & understated humour during a year unlike no other, inspired the Continent & the world to recognise Africa’s lesson of solidarity & experience as key to the global #Covid19 response. It was a distinct honour, Mr President,to serve alongside you. https://t.co/tHX5F234mC
— Moussa Faki Mahamat (@AUC_MoussaFaki) February 7, 2021
Your commitment to the #AU @UN partnership has seen unprecedented progress in our policy & operational cooperation over the last 4yrs. I look forward to strengthening the UN/AU partnership under your leadership to set a new standard for equitable international cooperation. https://t.co/6YyY424opb
— Moussa Faki Mahamat (@AUC_MoussaFaki) February 7, 2021
The African Union Commission (AUC) is the AU’s secretariat and undertakes the day to day activities of the Union. It is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Its functions, include: Representing the AU and defending its interests under the guidance of and as mandated by the Assembly and the Executive Council.
The Commission is composed of a chairperson, deputy chairperson and eight commissioners, plus staff. The Assembly elects the AUC Chairperson and AUC Deputy Chairperson. The Executive Council elects the eight AUC Commissioners, who are appointed by the Assembly. Commission members’ terms are for four years, renewable once.
