This archive report was first published on 15 June 2020.
On June 17, the United Nations will hold a virtual vote to determine the new non-permanent members of the Security Council, a decision that could significantly impact the future relations between Kenya and Djibouti.
Kenya, Djibouti, India, Mexico, Canada, Ireland, and Norway have all expressed interest in the position, but the real competition lies between Kenya and Djibouti, two African countries vying to replace South Africa on the UN's most powerful organ.
Traditionally, each region of the world is allocated seats to the Council, but the voting process is often a formality, as the regions typically agree on a candidate.
However, the situation between Kenya and Djibouti is different. The two countries have engaged in a fierce campaign, with Kenya accusing Djibouti of running a "dishonourable" campaign at the African Union Summit in February.
Despite diplomatic efforts and attempts at mediation by then AU chairperson Abdel Fattah al-Sissi, the two countries remain at odds. Kenya won the African Union's endorsement in August, but Djibouti refused to back down, arguing that the decision was "illegal".
Kenya has maintained that the endorsement was final and not subject to review, while Djibouti has claimed that it is Africa's "legitimate" candidate.
"This endorsement was final and not subject to review," Kenya stated, arguing that the AU had "unequivocally affirmed the decision to endorse Kenya" in a note circulated to AU members.
"Kenya considers this matter no longer solely about the candidature, but about the values and principles we have all chosen to abide by. Kenya therefore distances itself from any campaign that brings dishonour and disrepute to the African Union and any of its member states," Kenya added.
