The African Union Commission (AUC) is calling on member states to submit nominations for its upcoming leadership elections, scheduled for February 2025. This follows a decision by the Executive Council on March 15th, 2024, outlining the electoral process.
The Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson positions will be chosen based on a pre-determined regional rotation system. The Eastern region will present candidates for the Chairperson role, while the Northern region will vie for the Deputy Chairperson position.
The remaining six Commissioner positions will be open for competition, with the West, Central, and South regions encouraged to submit at least two nominations each.
Lesotho, whose last representation at the senior level was Commissioner of Economic Affairs Dr. Mothae MARUPING in 2017, is urged to nominate candidates. The Southern region is yet to determine its preferred candidates for the Commissioner positions.
Ambassador Ntšiuoa SEKETE, Lesotho’s Permanent Representative to the AUC, emphasized the importance of regional gender balance. “Regions are expected to submit both male and female candidates for all portfolios,” she stated.
The six Commissioner portfolios encompass key areas of development, including Agriculture & Environment, Economic Development, Education & Innovation, Infrastructure & Energy, Political Affairs & Security, and Health & Social Development.
