The African Union (AU) is grappling with internal tensions as the race to replace the outgoing Director of Conflict Management within the Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security intensifies.
The current director, whose term ends next month, has overseen a period marked by high-profile mediation efforts and crisis responses across the continent, including in Sudan, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His departure has opened the door for three candidates—each with strong backing among AU member states—to compete for the coveted position.
Diplomatic sources say the competition has sparked political maneuvering within the AU corridors in Addis Ababa, with certain regional blocs aggressively lobbying for their preferred nominees. The East African bloc is reportedly backing a seasoned conflict resolution expert from Kenya, while West Africa is pushing for a former ECOWAS mediator. Meanwhile, Southern Africa is promoting a high-ranking official from the SADC Secretariat.
The Director of Conflict Management is a strategic role within the AU framework, overseeing early warning systems, mediation missions, and coordination with regional bodies on peace and security matters. Whoever assumes the role will inherit a heavy workload amid ongoing crises in the Sahel, renewed tensions in the Horn of Africa, and post-conflict stabilization challenges in Libya.
AU insiders warn that prolonged political wrangling could delay the appointment, potentially weakening the organization’s ability to respond swiftly to emerging crises. “This is not just about a title,” said one AU official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “It’s about ensuring the AU has the right leadership to manage some of the continent’s most pressing security challenges.”
The final decision will be made by the AU Commission Chairperson in consultation with member states, with an announcement expected before the next African Union Peace and Security Council session in September.
