Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga
- 145 views
Raila Odinga's ambition to lead the African Union Commission (AUC) is gaining significant traction, with 25 member countries already expressing support for Kenya's candidate.
The Kenyan government, led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is actively working to secure the two-thirds majority necessary from the 48 eligible Heads of State in the election set for February. To strengthen Odinga's candidacy, President William Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi have embarked on a campaigning tour across Africa. Their efforts have received a notable endorsement from Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam who has effectively eliminated competition from Anil Gayan.
Additionally, former Vice President of Seychelles Vincent Meriton recently withdrew from the race to endorse Odinga, praising his extensive experience and vision for the continent. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei has expressed confidence in Odinga's prospects, citing his deep understanding of the socio-economic and political issues facing Africa as well as his solid relationships with other African leaders. Sing’oei reaffirms the administration's commitment to working diligently to secure Odinga's election.
Odinga has been actively engaging with leaders throughout West Africa, meeting with heads of state from countries including Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Senegal, Gambia, and Benin. During these discussions, he articulated his vision for a united and prosperous Africa, emphasizing the importance of improved communication and development across the continent. In a recent address in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Odinga outlined his priorities as a potential AUC chairperson, envisioning a competitive and peaceful Africa that asserts its influence globally.
He indicates that he aims to foster industrial growth and enhance infrastructure, advocating for high-speed rail connectivity and frictionless data communication, envisioning a future where visa requirements for travel across Africa would be eliminated. At the official launch of Odinga's bid for the AUC chairmanship in Nairobi, President Ruto highlighted the critical role Eastern Africa should play within the leadership of the African Union Commission. He endorsed Odinga as the most qualified candidate to assume the role, referencing the necessity of regional rotation in leadership positions.
The forthcoming vote will engage 48 African Heads of State, though it excludes seven nations recently affected by coups. Odinga's main competitors are Mahamoud Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randrianmandato of Madagascar, following the withdrawals of Fawzia Yusuf of Somalia and Meriton of Seychelles. Odinga's campaign includes a broader vision for Africa’s future, focused on harnessing the continent's potential and strengthening its geopolitical presence. His wealth of experience and commitment to Pan-Africanism resonate with many supporters, positioning him as a formidable contender for the AUC chairmanship.