Opposition leader, Raila Odinga may encounter obstacles in his pursuit of the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship position if suggested reforms to the election process are implemented.
The proposed reforms, aimed at overhauling the criteria used to select top officials within the continental body, could pose challenges for Odinga’s candidacy.
The AU Permanent Representative Committee has put forth several amendments intending to disqualify member states that have previously held the chairmanship and deputy positions since 2002 from participating in the upcoming election.
Should the heads of state from the 44 countries endorse the proposal, it would effectively prevent Odinga from contending for the AU chairmanship, given that Kenya and Rwanda have previously held deputy positions.
Per a 2018 decision, the chairmanship position operates on a rotational basis, stipulating that the next chairman should hail from the Eastern Africa region. However, with Tanzania and other Eastern African states emerging as the only viable candidates eligible to nominate, Odinga’s options could be limited.
The potential alterations, posing a threat to Odinga’s bid under the Azimio coalition, will be enshrined into law if approved by the heads of state.
The decision-making process at the AU, typically guided by consensus, offers a glimmer of hope for Kenya’s candidate, as a single dissenting vote against the proposed reforms could thwart their adoption.
President William Ruto has publicly endorsed Odinga’s bid, signaling support through the formation of a committee funded by public funds to spearhead Odinga’s campaign efforts.
