New African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson Ali Mahmoud Youssouf at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia/ HANDOUT
The new African Union Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has vowed to serve the African continent with dignity.
Youssouf stated that he is aware of the immense responsibility that has been bestowed upon him, adding that he will be an accountable leader.
He acknowledged God’s power in his victory and prayed for strengthen to perform his duties.
"God has decreed what He wills, and to Him be praise and thanks. Responsibility is not just an honour, but rather a duty for which a person will be held accountable. I ask God to help me perform its duties,” he said.
He also acknowledged the trust African heads of state have in him to take on the task of leading the AUC.
“This is a very heavy responsibility and I'm aware of its importance. I'm committed to working to advance the continental agenda. Thank you all for your continued support,” he said.
"Thank you to all of you for your unwavering support. We made it together. I'm humbled and overwhelmed. May God help me to serve the continent and our African peoples."
Youssouf beat former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato in the elections.
Raila was Kenya’s candidate in the election in which Youssouf emerged winner after securing 33 votes after seven rounds of voting.
Raila conceded defeat and congratulated Youssouf on his victory, wishing him well during his term.
Youssouf assumes the office with the responsibilities of being the Commission’s chief accounting officer and legal representative of the African Union (AU).
As the AUC chairperson, he is also responsible for the Commission's finances and administration, promoting its objectives and dealing with key stakeholders (member states, development partners, regional blocs).
He is also in charge of appointing and managing Commission staff, and storing AU and Organisation of AU (OAU) treaties and legal instruments.
The Commission chairperson is responsible for facilitating and reporting all AU organ meetings and for ensuring conformity between all AU initiatives.
The chairman is also tasked with preparing the AU’s annual report.
Youssouf will serve on a four-year tenure, renewable once.
He takes over from Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad.
