Rwanda's Louise Mushikiwabo Seeks Third Term as Francophonie Chief

Cambodia is hosting the 20th International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) summit from November 14 to 16, 2026, in Phnom Penh. The event brings together leaders from 90 countries and international organizations. The summit is significant as it will see the election of a new Secretary-General of the OIF, who will lead the organization from 2027 to 2030. Louise Mushikiwabo of Rwanda is seeking a third term as Secretary-General.

The OIF is an international organization that promotes the French language and cooperation among its member states. It was established on March 20, 1970, in Niamey, Niger, and currently has 90 member countries and governments. The organization's goals include promoting peace, democracy, education, human rights, and cultural diversity. Cambodia, a country in Southeast Asia with historical ties to France, is hosting the summit for the first time.

Louise Mushikiwabo has been the Secretary-General of the OIF since 2019 and was re-elected in 2022. She faces opposition from Juliana Amato Lumumba of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Dr. Coumba Ba of Mauritania, and Dacian Cioloș of Romania. The election is scheduled for November 16, 2026, and will be decided by the votes of 53 member countries. Mushikiwabo's candidacy has been met with controversy, with some countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, opposing her re-election.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed concerns about Mushikiwabo's candidacy, citing her nationality and perceived bias. The country's President, Félix Tshisekedi, has reportedly considered withdrawing from the OIF if Mushikiwabo is re-elected. The DRC is the largest French-speaking country in the world, with 67.8 million people speaking French. Mushikiwabo has stated that the OIF Secretary-General should be elected based on their competence and ability to lead the organization.

The Francophonie summit in Cambodia takes place amid global challenges, including conflicts, political tensions, and economic instability. The leaders attending the summit will discuss ways to strengthen cooperation and promote peace, democracy, and sustainable development. The event also provides an opportunity for Cambodia to increase its international profile and attract investment.

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame attended the summit, where they were received by King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia. The Kagames also visited two historical sites in Phnom Penh as part of their working visit to Cambodia. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Rwanda and Cambodia.

The OIF has made significant progress under Mushikiwabo's leadership, including streamlining its projects and increasing its budget. The organization has also launched initiatives to support women's empowerment and education. If re-elected, Mushikiwabo plans to expand training programs for young people in technology and skills development.

Key points

• Louise Mushikiwabo seeks third term as Francophonie chief amid controversy
• OIF summit in Cambodia brings together leaders from 90 countries
• Rwanda's President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame attend the summit