EAC's future at stake as leadership election tests regional unity
The East African Community (EAC) faces a critical decision in selecting its next Secretary-General. The bloc's future hinges on this election, as past leadership struggles and waning member commitment have weakened integration efforts. Observers argue that only a candidate from a founding state with a strong EAC track record can revive the community's goals.
The EAC's survival depends on leadership that can steer it toward political union. Past Secretaries-General like Juma Mwapachu, Amanya Mushega, and Richard Sezibera succeeded by driving integration with experience and neutrality. Their successors, however, have struggled—Kenya's 2021-2026 term was marred by corruption claims and poor consensus-building.
Under EAC rules, the next Secretary-General should come from South Sudan. Yet its engagement remains weak compared to founding members. Uganda and Tanzania, in contrast, have shown consistent commitment. Uganda pioneered projects like the Busia One-Stop Border Post (operational since 2011), cutting clearance times by over 70%. Tanzania led the 2024 harmonisation of trade standards, boosting intra-EAC trade to 25% of total trade by 2025.
The ideal candidate must be a senior political figure with no further ambitions. They should also come from a state that has fully adopted EAC laws and paid dues on time. Uganda and Tanzania outperform newer members like South Sudan and DR Congo in compliance, making them the strongest contenders.
The next Secretary-General's selection will shape the EAC's direction. A leader from Uganda or Tanzania, with a record of driving integration, could restore momentum. Without such leadership, the bloc's political and economic goals may remain out of reach.
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