afrol News, 5 February - The current Foreign Affairs Minister of Gabon, Jean Ping, has been elected the head of the African Union Commission, replacing Alpha Oumar Konaré.

Konaré - the former Malian President - held the post since 2003. His mandate expired on 30
October last year. Mr Konaré did not seek for re-election during the 10th African Union heads of state and government summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Ping had defeated three other candidates, including Dr. Mbikusita-Lewanika, Zambia's Ambassador to United States of America. He polled 31 votes to become the AU Commission Chairperson.

Ping's election was held shortly after the presentation of a critical report on the operation of the continental body's commission.

The outgoing commission head had earlier asked heads of state and government summit to strengthen the power of the commission and its chairman.

Heads of state and government are mandated to elect the AU commissioners, including the chair and vice chairperson.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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