Madani set to energize OIC

The appointment of Iyad Madani, former Saudi Haj and information minister, as the new secretary-general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation opens a new era in the history of the 56-member body, political analysts said.
“This is the first time a Saudi official is appointed OIC secretary-general,” one analyst said, adding that it would have a big impact on strengthening the organization, which is based in Riyadh. Madani will take charge as the new OIC chief on Jan. 1, 2014.
Madani’s appointment as the 10th secretary-general of the OIC, was endorsed by the 12th Islamic Summit, which ended in Cairo yesterday. He will replace Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu who has been in the position since 2005.
There were three potential candidates from the African continent contesting for the position of OIC secretary-general but all of them withdrew in favor of Madani, said Amr Ramadan, assistant foreign minister of Egypt.
Addressing the summit, Madani commended the OIC leadership and its vision for the Ummah’s progress and prosperity. “The OIC represents your vision and your decisions, which are being awaited by the Ummah. They will determine its future,” Madani said. “It’s a great honor for me to join you in serving this organization.”
Ihsanoglu has played a big role in strengthening the body. Egyptian President Muhammad Mursi honored Ihsanoglu during the summit yesterday by conferring on him Egypt’s highest medal, the Nile Sash.
Madani was minister of Haj until 2005. Then he served as minister of culture and information from 2005 to 2009. He was appointed chairman of the board of directors of Knowledge Economic City in Madinah on March 10, 2012, replacing Sami Mohsen Baroum. He also serves as vice president of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Foundation for Housing Development.