A Tense Election for the Secretary-General of the Francophonie

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PHNOM PENH – On Nov. 16, behind closed doors, the member countries of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) are set to elect the ...

PHNOM PENH – On Nov. 16, behind closed doors, the member countries of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) are set to elect the secretary-general who will oversee the organization during the 2027–2030 term. Four candidates are in the running in an election marked by tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as diplomatic balances within the Francophone world are shifting.

After going through an interview process in France in June 2026, which was a first in the history of the OIF, the four candidates for the position of secretary-general are nearing the end of a particularly contentious campaign. Beyond the selection of a leader and a platform, this election is putting to the test the cohesion of an organization already weakened by the departure of several of its members.

Louise Mushikiwabo, the current secretary-general, is seeking a third term. This former Rwandan minister of Foreign Affairs can draw on a diplomatic network she has built during her first two terms. She intends to focus the OIF’s efforts on a few priorities, notably digital technology, education and women’s role in the economy.

Running against her is Juliana Amato Lumumba, former minister of culture of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), who advocates for greater consideration of the expectations of countries in the “Global South.” As the daughter of Patrice Lumumba, a leading figure in the Congo’s independence and Pan-Africanism, her candidacy carries significant symbolic and political weight.

Coumba Bâ of Mauritania, a medical doctor and politician, is presenting herself as a unifying candidate. Amid the rivalry between the Rwandan and Congolese candidates, she seeks to embody a path of reconciliation capable of uniting the African nations.

The only non-African candidate is former Romanian Prime Minister Dacian Cioloș. He is highlighting his national and European experience through a campaign more focused on economic issues.

The election is…

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