Just hours after defeating Raila Odinga in a fiercely contested campaign on Saturday, February 15, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the newly appointed chairperson of the AUC, thanked President William Ruto in a message.
After multiple rounds of fierce voting, the foreign minister of Djibouti defeated Raila Odinga and was sworn in that same day.
Following his victory and swearing-in, Youssouf sent a note to President William Ruto, thanking him for congratulating him even though the Head of State had supported Raila.
“I appreciate that H.E. President William Ruto congratulated me on winning. He’s the African reform champion,” Youssouf posted on X, the former Twitter.
“I am honored to work with him to advance our continental agenda: Asanti sana Mze (Sic),” the newly appointed AUC chair added, pledging to collaborate with Ruto to further Africa’s goal. (Many thanks, leader).
Odinga, who had the backing of a number of continental leaders, including his erstwhile political rival Ruto, suffered a serious setback with the defeat.
In a rare display of statesmanship, Raila expressed his happiness for his Djibouti counterpart rather than contesting the defeat. As a result, I accept defeat and urge that we use this as a model to fortify democracy throughout our continent. “I hope Mahamoud Ali Youssouf’s endeavors are successful and full of success,” Mr. Odinga stated.
Taking the high road, Ruto congratulated Youssouf while also thanking everyone who supported Raila.
“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,” said the president.
Unbeknownst to Kenyans, Mahmoud Youssouf was a strong candidate, and Raila would never be able to defeat the articulate diplomat.
Being fluent in French, Arabic, and English—languages utilized in international diplomacy, organizations, and forums—is thought to have been one of the minister’s main advantages.
