Nairobi, June 5, 2024 — Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Azimio leader Raila Odinga have jointly addressed the status of Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Here are the key points:
- Formal Pitch to Peers:
- Kenya has formally pitched Raila Odinga to African peers, seeking their support for his election as the next AUC chairperson.
- Mudavadi, in a briefing to diplomats representing African countries in Nairobi, emphasized the importance of backing Odinga’s bid.
- Nairobi’s Leadership Role:
- Mudavadi highlighted that Nairobi, as a key player, will use its leadership within the AUC to foster stronger ties among African countries, particularly in trade and investments.
- Kenya is committed to building a more interconnected and prosperous Africa through this position.
- Odinga’s Candidacy:
- Raila Odinga has already offered himself for the AUC chairperson position.
- He has been engaging with African leaders directly or indirectly, seeking their support in recent months.
- Next AUC Elections:
- The next AUC elections are scheduled for February next year.
- The winner will replace Chadian diplomat Moussa Faki Mahamat, who is completing his two terms and is ineligible to run.
- Rotational Format:
- Under the 2018 reforms, AU Commission chairpersons, their deputies, and six commissioners are elected in a rotational format.
- Eastern Africa is next in line to supply the chairperson.
- Proposal at the Summit:
- During last month’s Africa Union Summit in Addis Ababa, a proposal was tabled to prevent countries that have previously produced chairpersons or deputies from running unless all eligible countries in their region have had a chance.
The race for the AUC chairperson position remains closely watched, and Raila Odinga’s bid continues to gain momentum. As the continent anticipates the upcoming elections, Kenya’s diplomatic efforts play a crucial role in shaping Africa’s future.
