The African Union invites citizens from across the continent to participate in Friday’s debate among candidates for the next Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission.

The debate, beginning at 1630 GMT (1130 UEST), marks the first time that a debate among the candidates has been held prior to the AU member governments choosing a new chairperson. That selection will be made at an AU summit in January.

“The AUC is inviting all candidates to the top leadership position of the continental organization, to give them the opportunity to present their various perspectives in the area of leading the continental agenda for the upcoming four years,” the AU Leadership Academy organizers said.

The event will be livestreamed from Addis Ababa to the entire continent as part of the “MjadalaAfrika” series, as well as televised live in many African countries.

Social media will be used to take questions from African citizens on the issues and opportunities they think most impact Africa’s future. The event moderator will then directly ask the candidates those questions, to help shape an understanding of their leadership priorities, experience and policy positions.

The candidates for the position include:

• Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi of Botswana
• Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad
• Mba Mokuy of Equatorial Guinea
• Amina C Mohamed of Kenya
• Abdoulaye Bathily of Senegal

Meanwhile, African leaders, diplomats and organizations continue to appeal for their preferred candidates. Among others, Tanzania and Ethiopia are likely supporting Mohamed, while the Southern African Development Community (SADC) backs Botswanan candidate Venson-Moitoit, the East African in Kenya reports.

Image: African Union