cinq candidats en lice pour succéder à Adesina à la tête de la Banque
Summary of the African Development Bank Presidential Election
Overview of the Election Process
The African Development Bank (AfDB) is set to elect a new president on Thursday during its 60th Annual Assembly in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. This election is crucial as it will determine the successor to Akinwumi Adesina, who has led the institution since 2015. The voting process is expected to be competitive, reflecting diverse interests among its 81 member countries.
Composition of the Council of Governors
The Council of Governors, comprising finance ministers, economic leaders, and central bank governors from member countries, will convene to select the next president. Their decision will significantly impact the direction of the bank, which plays a vital role in Africa’s economic development.
Candidates for Presidency
Five candidates have been nominated, with their credentials and respective backgrounds highlighting their qualifications:
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Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala (South Africa): Currently the AfDB’s Vice President, Tshabalala is recognized in the banking sector and has led various financial institutions across Africa.
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Samuel Munzele Maimbo (Zambia): An economist and World Bank Vice President responsible for budget and strategic planning, Maimbo has held multiple significant positions within international financial organizations.
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Sidi Ould Tah (Mauritania): Former Minister of Finance and Economy in Mauritania, Tah has a decade-long history leading the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
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Mahamat Abbas Tolli (Chad): Supported by the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), Tolli has experience as governor of the Central African States Bank (BEAC) and in various ministries in Chad.
- Amadou Hott (Senegal): A former Senegalese Minister of Economy, Planning, and Cooperation, Hott has also served on the board of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and has prior experience at the AfDB.
Voting Criteria
To win the presidency, a candidate must secure over 50% of the votes from both regional and non-regional members during a secret ballot. Voting rights are proportional to each member nation’s financial contribution to the bank, with major shareholders like Algeria, Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa collectively holding about one-third of the voting power.
Significance of the Election
The outcome of this election is pivotal for the AfDB and its role in fostering economic growth and development across Africa. It will influence policy directions and the bank’s approach to supporting its member countries, particularly in addressing pressing economic challenges and unlocking growth opportunities.
Conclusion
The election of a new president for the African Development Bank is keenly anticipated, with significant implications for the financial institution and its member states. The candidates bring a wealth of experience and expertise, positioning them to lead the bank in promoting sustainable economic development in Africa.
