President William Ruto has announced the formation of a committee tasked with promoting the candidacy of Raila Odinga, leader of the Azimio la Umoja party, for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU).
The committee, funded by government resources, comprises members from both the ruling party and the opposition, with plans to expand its membership further.
Reports indicate that Ruto has engaged in diplomatic efforts across various African nations to advocate for Raila’s candidacy, facilitating the opposition leader’s declaration of interest in the AU leadership role.
During a speech in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, asserted that it is time for Eastern Africa to assume leadership within the AU, given the rotational principles governing the organization.
Leaders of the Azimio la Umoja coalition, led by Kalonzo Musyoka, have pledged their support for Raila’s bid for the AU chairmanship, affirming their commitment to bolstering his candidacy.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has also endorsed Raila for the position, emphasizing his suitability to succeed Moussa Faki.
Raila Odinga has accepted the endorsement and expressed readiness to serve the continent if elected to the AU commission in February 2025.
He has assured that his involvement in continental affairs would not preclude him from participating in Kenyan politics in the future. If successful, Raila would serve in the AU role from 2025 to 2028, following Kenya’s next general elections.
