As campaigning for the La Francophonie Secretary General slot ends, Nduhungirehe emphasized that all member states are equal, with rights and obligations. He stated that one of these rights is to nominate a candidate for the position of Secretary-General, which Rwanda did in accordance with the applicable rules and within the deadline. Nduhungirehe's comments come amid calls for Louise Mushikiwabo to withdraw her candidacy for the head of the OIF.
The election campaign took place under favorable conditions, with no personal attacks or conflicts between states. Nduhungirehe's response was aimed at addressing concerns raised by some member states, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has been working to prevent Rwanda's incumbent Mushikiwabo from being re-elected. The DRC fielded Juliana Lumumba as a candidate to counter Mushikiwabo's bid for the top spot.
The competition for the La Francophonie Secretary General position has attracted several candidates, including Romania's Dacian Cioloș, the only male and European candidate, and Mauritania's Coumba Bâ, a doctor. The rules adopted at the 2022 summit in Djerba, Tunisia, retained consensus as the preferred method but opened the door to a vote if no agreement can be reached. In case of no consensus, the leaders of the 53 member states would elect the new chief by a simple majority.
Rwanda believes that Mushikiwabo is well-experienced and equipped for the Secretary General job at the La Francophonie organisation (OIF). Her re-election bid has garnered support from many member states, while others, like the DRC, have expressed opposition. The DRC has indicated its readiness to withdraw Lumumba's candidacy, potentially paving the way for a consensus or a vote.
The La Francophonie Ministerial Conference recently approved consensus ahead of the summit, highlighting the organization's commitment to a peaceful and collaborative process. French President Macron, who is set to attend the summit, has emphasized France's soft-power and its role in promoting cultural diversity and cooperation among La Francophonie member states.
The summit will also focus on adopting protection of cultural heritage and diversity, reflecting the organization's priorities. With over 200 exhibitors featuring at FrancoTech 2026 in Phnom Penh, the event promises to showcase innovations and advancements in various fields. The Francophone Entrepreneurs Forum will also take place, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to network and explore opportunities.
As the La Francophonie summit approaches, member states are expected to engage in discussions on key issues affecting the organization and its member states. The outcome of the election and the summit's deliberations will have significant implications for the future of the organization and its role in promoting cultural and linguistic diversity.
Key points
- No country has the right to order another state to withdraw its candidacy for La Francophonie Secretary General.
- The La Francophonie election campaign took place under favorable conditions with no personal attacks or conflicts between states.
- The organization has 53 member states that will elect the new chief by a simple majority if no consensus is reached.
