The ECOWAS Council of Ministers meeting in Abuja has unanimously endorsed former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama as West Africa’s sole candidate for the African Union Chairmanship when the rotation reaches the region in 2027. Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the decision, saying the Heads of State are expected to adopt the endorsement on Sunday.
Ablakwa expressed Ghana’s gratitude for the confidence shown in Mahama, praising him as a visionary and committed Pan-African leader.
The AU leadership structure involves a one-year rotating Chairperson, held by a Head of State and the Chairperson of the AU Commission, a four-year executive role responsible for implementing policies and managing the Union’s operations. Candidates for the Commission role undergo screening by a Panel of Eminent Africans, regional nominations, and, more recently, participate in public debates before a final election by the AU Assembly through a two-thirds secret ballot.
The endorsement places Mahama in a strong position as West Africa’s unified choice ahead of the 2027 AU leadership cycle.