The International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) is set for a contentious leadership contest as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda back rival candidates amid ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
Friday marked the deadline for submissions for the role of secretary general of the OIF, a bloc representing more than 320 million French speakers across 90 states and governments.
The race comes at a tense moment, with relations between Kinshasa and Kigali strained by continued fighting involving Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo, allegations Rwanda denies.
Incumbent secretary general Louise Mushikiwabo of Rwanda is seeking a third term, positioning her candidacy on continuity and institutional reform. She faces a strong challenge from Congo’s Juliana Lumumba, a former culture minister and daughter of independence leader Patrice Lumumba.
Other candidates include Mauritania’s Coumba Ba and Romania’s former prime minister Dacian Cioloș, adding further weight to what is shaping up to be a competitive race.
Kinshasa has actively campaigned for Lumumba, framing her candidacy as reflective of the growing demographic and cultural influence of Francophone Africa. With a population of around 100 million, Congo is the world’s largest French-speaking country.
Rwanda, meanwhile, has emphasised Mushikiwabo’s track record since her election in 2018, backed initially by France, and her efforts to modernise the organisation.
Officials on both sides have sought to downplay political tensions, insisting the election should not be overshadowed by bilateral disputes. However, the backdrop of ongoing conflict risks turning the vote into a broader diplomatic contest.
The OIF secretary general role carries significant influence, shaping cooperation on education, culture, governance and economic development across the Francophone world.
