AU

The African Union held an extraordinary summit in Addis at the end of last week. They were discussing reform of the United Nations Security Council.

The 53 African States had agreed to ask for two permanent seats with the power of veto at an earlier summit. 

However, many people believed that one of the best ways (only ways??) to get those seats was to do a deal with the G4 countries (Brazil, Japan, Germany and India). The G4 had made it clear that the veto would be a no go and had asked the African states to reconsider - hence the meeting.

Leaders - including Robert Mugabe and Thabo Mbeki - swept in to the AU amidst tight security. The meeting started with a speech by the Nigerian President,
Olusegun Obasanjo, who made it pretty clear that he wanted to see a consensus (i.e the call for a veto dropped)...with that in mind I thought it was ALMOST a done deal.

But seven hours later and Mr Obasanjo left (not looking too happy apparently) saying to journalists "What can I say?"

Everyone else started leaving shortly afterwards...few wanted to speak to the media but it became clear that they had agreed to stick to their original position. They also agreed to set up a group of 10 heads of states to promote their position internationally.

But was this really the best move for Africa? I'm certainly no expert but I just wonder what their chances of success are now without the support of the G4.....