Morocco makes first play for power in AU as union joins G20 and faces USAID cuts

Morocco is pushing for its first major leadership role in the African Union, nominating diplomat Latifa Akharbach for Vice-President, a move that comes after decades of Morocco avoiding top AU positions.

The Vice-Presidency, reserved for a woman from North Africa, is crucial as the AU faces growing global responsibility following its entry into the G20.  With the U.S. scaling back aid, experts say the AU’s new leadership must strengthen its global position to address Africa’s economic and security challenges.

Akharbach’s candidacy is momentous, not only because of her extensive experience in diplomacy and communication but also due to the fierce competition she faces. 

She is up against candidates from Algeria, Egypt, and Libya for the Vice-Presidency, a post that, under recent reforms, is reserved for a woman from North Africa. 

The reforms promoted by Rwanda’s Paul Kagame have instituted a complex rotation system based on regional representation and gender parity. 

The AU Presidency, which will be held by a male candidate from East Africa, requires the Vice-Presidency to go to a woman from North Africa. 

This guarantees that one of the female candidates will secure the post. However, despite this guarantee, the race is anything but clear-cut.

Akharbach, a former Minister and head of Morocco’s audiovisual authority, faces tough opposition, particularly from Algeria’s Salma Malika Haddadi. 

While Haddadi’s diplomatic track record includes notable posts, her management experience has been called into question, leaving her as a less formidable contender.

 In contrast, Akharbach’s expertise in navigating international negotiations and complex governance systems makes her a strong candidate to guide the AU’s financial portfolio.

Yet, the battle is not solely between Morocco and Algeria. Libya’s Najat Hajjaji and Egypt’s Hanan Morsy are also vying for the role. 

Morsy, an economist with ties to the UN Economic Commission for Africa, presents a well-respected candidacy, further complicating the race. 

The outcome, however, is shrouded in uncertainty, as the vote hinges on delicate diplomatic maneuvering and the shifting allegiances of the AU’s member states.