AfDB unveils official list of 5 cleared candidates for presidency

In a statement issued this afternoon, the AfDB announced that the candidates were approved by the Bank’s Steering Committee after successfully undergoing the necessary evaluation and qualification process.

With the tenure of the current AfDB President, Prof. Akinwumi Adesina, set to expire in May 2025, several contenders have emerged, aiming either to build on his legacy or to introduce new leadership directions for the institution.

The Steering Committee of the Board of Governors on the Election of the President of the African Development Bank convened on February 11 and 12, 2025, at the Bank’s headquarters in Abidjan.

After a thorough review of the candidatures, the Steering Committee has cleared the following candidates for the presidential election scheduled for May 29, 2025:

The election will determine the next leader of the AfDB, a key institution driving Africa’s economic development and financial stability.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) president is elected by the Board of Governors for a renewable five-year term.

The election process typically involves several candidates from various African countries.

To win the election, a candidate must secure at least 50.01% of the total votes of the regional (African) member countries and at least 50.01% of the votes of all member countries (regional and non-regional) of the Bank.

The Board of Governors, comprising representatives from the bank’s member countries, plays a crucial role in the election process.

They examine the candidatures, clear the candidates, and ultimately elect the president.

It’s worth noting that powerful regional blocs, such as ECOWAS, SADC, and COMESA, can significantly influence the election outcome, especially when they have a candidate in the running.