Mahmoud Youssouf, Djibouti’s foreign minister, is leaving his post to take on a prestigious role as president of the African Union Commission (AUC). His departure has triggered a political scramble in the small Horn of Africa nation, with several figures eyeing the vacant position. The timing is significant, as Djibouti heads into a crucial election year.
The 53-year-old Youssouf’s new role at the AUC is one of the most prominent diplomatic appointments in Africa. As president of the AUC, he will be at the forefront of shaping continental policies on peace, security, and economic development. This move marks a career milestone for the experienced diplomat, who has long been a key figure in Djibouti’s foreign affairs.
However, his departure creates a leadership vacuum in Djibouti, where politicians are already positioning themselves for the next presidential elections. The country is set to hold elections in 2026, and with just over a year before the polls open, the political landscape is quickly heating up. As a result, the race to replace Youssouf as foreign minister is now a key battleground.
While several potential candidates have emerged, no clear frontrunner has yet emerged. Within the ruling coalition, there is strong interest from senior political figures who believe they are well-positioned to step into the foreign minister’s role. Some are advocating for seasoned diplomats with extensive international experience, while others are pushing for younger, more dynamic figures with fresh ideas to drive Djibouti’s foreign policy forward.
The key challenge for those vying for the position will be maintaining the country’s close ties with its allies while navigating a changing political landscape. Djibouti’s strategic location at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East has made it a key player in international trade, maritime security, and counterterrorism efforts. The next foreign minister will have to build on these strengths while also addressing emerging challenges such as climate change and regional instability.
In addition to the foreign minister position, there is also speculation about the future direction of Djibouti’s leadership. Youssouf’s exit has sparked debate about who will succeed the current president, Ismail Omar Guelleh, who has held office since 1999. As Guelleh prepares for his fifth term in office, the field of potential successors continues to widen. Some observers believe that the departure of Youssouf could pave the way for a younger generation of leaders to take the helm in the coming years.
For now, the immediate focus is on the foreign minister’s position. As Djibouti moves closer to its 2026 elections, the political jockeying is expected to intensify. With several politicians already positioning themselves for a potential run, the next year is likely to be a turbulent one for the country’s political establishment. Many will be watching closely to see who emerges as the new face of Djibouti’s foreign policy, and how they will shape the country’s role on the African and global stage.
While Youssouf’s departure is undoubtedly a significant moment in Djibouti’s political history, it also marks a time of transition and opportunity. As politicians maneuver to fill the void he leaves behind, the country’s political future will take shape in the coming months. The stakes are high, and the outcome of the political reshuffle could have a lasting impact on Djibouti’s trajectory in the years ahead.
In conclusion, Mahmoud Youssouf’s appointment to the African Union Commission is a major diplomatic achievement for Djibouti. However, it also opens the door for political competition and reshuffling within the country. As Djibouti prepares for its next presidential election, the battle for the foreign minister’s seat and other key positions will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally.
