The Rwandan government has made it clear that it will not withdraw its support for Louise Mushikiwabo's candidacy to lead the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), despite a request from French President Emmanuel Macron to the contrary. According to Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, the country will not change its decision to back Mushikiwabo's bid for a third term as head of the OIF.
Macron reportedly sent a message to Rwandan President Paul Kagame on November 12-13, 2026, requesting that he withdraw Mushikiwabo's candidacy in an effort to avoid a divisive election. The French president allegedly wanted to ensure that the OIF member states could agree on a single candidate, thereby preventing a situation that could lead to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) leaving the organization.
Mushikiwabo has been leading the OIF since 2019 and was re-elected for a second term in 2022. She is now seeking a third term, facing competition from three other candidates: Juliana Amato Lumumba from the DRC, Coumba Bâ from Mauritania, and Dacian Cioloș from Romania. A total of 53 OIF member states will participate in the election, which is set to take place on November 16, 2026.
The OIF election takes place against a backdrop of strained relations between Rwanda and the DRC. Kinshasa has expressed concerns that if Mushikiwabo is re-elected, it may consider leaving the OIF. France has also voiced worries that the election could further divide the organization, prompting Macron's reported intervention.
Rwanda's decision to maintain its support for Mushikiwabo's candidacy signals the country's commitment to its current foreign policy trajectory. The government has made it clear that it will not be swayed by external pressures and will continue to back its preferred candidate.
The controversy surrounding the OIF election highlights the complex dynamics at play within the organization. With multiple candidates vying for the top position, the outcome remains uncertain. Mushikiwabo's continued bid for leadership has sparked debate among member states, with some expressing concerns about her potential re-election.
As the election approaches, the international community is watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. The OIF plays a significant role in promoting French language and culture, and the outcome of the election could have far-reaching implications for the organization's future.
Key points
- Rwanda refuses to withdraw support for Louise Mushikiwabo's OIF candidacy despite Macron's request.
- The OIF election is set to take place on November 16, 2026, with 53 member states participating.
- The election is marked by controversy, with concerns about potential divisions within the organization.
