Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga will face off against his opponents in a live televised debate next week as part of his campaign for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). The debate, titled Mjadala Africa, is scheduled for December 13, 2024, at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
During the debate, Odinga will engage with Mohamed Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randrianmandrato of Madagascar. Anil Gayan of Mauritius has yet to confirm his participation, though Raila has received the endorsement of Mauritius’ newly elected Prime Minister, Navinchandra Ramgoolam.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi highlighted the significance of the debate, noting that it provides a platform for candidates to present their vision for Africa’s future. “Raila will use the debate as an opportunity to outline his plans for the continent’s transformation through the implementation of the AU Mandate and Africa’s Agenda 2063,” Mudavadi said.
He emphasized that the debate is an opportunity for African citizens and stakeholders to engage directly with the candidates. “This platform allows Africans to understand the priorities of those seeking to lead the continent’s premier institution,” Mudavadi remarked.
Mudavadi expressed confidence in Raila’s ability to make a strong case for his candidacy, highlighting his extensive experience and pan-African credentials. “We have no doubt that Raila Odinga’s pan-African credentials and leadership experience will immensely contribute to the continent’s shared prosperity and champion the causes of peace, unity, and development across Africa and beyond,” he stated.
According to Mudavadi, Raila’s candidacy goes beyond representing Kenya, as he embodies the aspirations of the entire continent. He urged African leaders to support Raila’s bid to succeed current Chairperson Moussa Faki of Chad, whose term ends in February 2025.
