President William Ruto has expressed strong support for Raila Odinga’s bid for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC), emphasizing that Odinga’s victory would not only benefit Kenya but also the entire East African region and the broader African continent.
Speaking on the third day of the Piny Luo Cultural Festival at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium, President Ruto reiterated that Raila Odinga is the right candidate to lead the AUC.
“This celebration reaffirms that our collective push as East Africa to present Raila Odinga as a candidate for the AUC chairmanship is the right course of action. Odinga is not just a candidate for Kenya, but a candidate for the entire East African region,” President Ruto stated.
He further explained that before launching Odinga’s candidacy, they consulted with regional leaders, including Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other heads of state in East Africa who confirmed that Raila Odinga is the ideal candidate to champion the unity and progress of Africa.
“Raila Odinga has a proven track record as a visionary and unifying force,” he added.
Raila Odinga’s campaign for the AUC chairmanship has gained significant momentum with widespread support from Eastern Africa.
During a recent meeting of the AU Executive Council, it was agreed that East Africa would present a candidate for the AUC leadership, bolstering Raila’s chances of success.
The former Prime Minister’s campaign is centred around promoting African unity, advancing sustainable development, and strengthening the African Union’s institutional frameworks.
His long-standing political experience, combined with his commitment to Pan-Africanism, has positioned him as a strong contender.
He has already garnered endorsements from influential figures, including former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, as well as several East African heads of state.
These leaders have highlighted Raila Odinga’s role as a unifying force capable of tackling Africa’s most pressing issues.
If he succeeds, Raila Odinga will replace Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, who has served as the AUC Chairperson since 2017.
The AUC chairmanship elections are set for February 2025 and Raila Odinga’s ongoing diplomatic efforts signal a robust campaign to secure continental consensus for his leadership.
