Raila Odinga Announces Candidacy for AU Commission Chairperson, Gaining Regional Support
By Kelvin Kimuge
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson position, marking a historic move that could reshape regional dynamics within the AU.
In a press conference held in Nairobi, Odinga declared his candidacy amidst strong endorsements from prominent figures including Kenyan President William Ruto and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo. This unified backing highlights a rare consensus between government and opposition in Kenya, underscoring the significance of Odinga’s bid on the continental stage.
Odinga, known for his pivotal role as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure from 2018 to 2023, emphasized his commitment to leveraging this experience to foster socio-economic development across Africa. His candidacy comes at a critical juncture as Eastern Africa, backed by the AU Executive Council’s recent decision, prepares to assert its influence through the upcoming leadership election.
President Ruto, speaking at a public event, reaffirmed Kenya’s support for Odinga, stressing the importance of unity and collaborative governance in advancing Kenya’s interests within the AU. This endorsement signals a strategic alignment between Kenya’s political factions, aiming to consolidate regional representation within continental affairs.
Elkanah Odembo, former Kenyan ambassador and head of Odinga’s campaign, noted the growing momentum behind Odinga’s candidacy, describing it as a symbol of East Africa’s aspiration for prominent leadership within the AU. With the elections scheduled for February 2025, Odinga’s bid not only reflects personal ambition but also a broader regional push for inclusive governance and development across Africa.
As the race for the AUC Chairperson intensifies, Raila Odinga’s candidacy stands as a testament to East Africa’s strategic opportunity to shape continental policies and foster integration, promising a new era of leadership that could profoundly impact Africa’s future trajectory.
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