Kenyan leaders express support for Raila Odinga ahead of AUC chairperson’s election
Kenyan leaders have rallied behind former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, offering their warm wishes and unwavering support as he heads into the highly anticipated African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson elections.
The vote, scheduled for Saturday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is seen as one of the most critical diplomatic moments of Odinga's career.
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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was among the first to express his confidence in Odinga's candidacy on Friday.
"Kenya's finest Raila Odinga is undoubtedly the best bet for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Africa deserves the best," he said.
The former DP stressed that Odinga's vision for the African continent and his longstanding advocacy for Pan-African unity made him the ideal candidate to lead the continent forward.
He also noted that Odinga's leadership would help bridge the divide between Anglophone and Francophone African nations.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also voiced his strong endorsement of Odinga's bid.
He expressed his belief in Odinga's ability to transform Africa.
Continental infrastructure
"Raila's commitment to fast-tracking the implementation of the continental infrastructure master plan... will create the needed African connectivity, ease access, build solidarity and increase intra-Africa trade," Musyoka said.
"As a son of Kenya and an internationally respected advocate of our continent's well-being, I fully support Raila's bid for the AUC presidency and wish him all the best," he added.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru also extended her wishes of success to Odinga, highlighting his dedication to Pan-Africanism and regional integration.
"Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, your leadership, dedication to Pan-Africanism, and commitment to regional integration have left a lasting impact. I am confident your experience will drive the continent's development forward. Wishing you all the best Baba," Waiguru said.
Isiolo Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo, another prominent figure backing Odinga, praised his leadership and Pan-African ideals.
"A proven statesman with decades of dedicated service, his visionary leadership, deep Pan-African ideals, and steadfast commitment to unity and development make him a strong candidate for this pivotal role," Abdi said, wishing Odinga success in the upcoming election.
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni and former Kakamega senator Cleopas Malala also expressed their support for Odinga.
Passaris lauded Odinga for his unwavering vision, which she believes will help the African continent thrive.
Widespread respect
Kioni noted that Odinga's work ethic and focus have earned him widespread respect, and Malala praised his passion and commitment to the Pan-African cause.
Even veterans of the Mau Mau movement have shown their backing for Odinga, urging African leaders to vote for him to ensure the prosperity of the continent.
"We appeal to all heads of state and governments to elect Raila Amollo Odinga for the prosperity of Africa," the Mau Mau Veterans Association said in a statement.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino also expressed his unwavering support for Odinga, calling on the African Union to elect a leader of his calibre.
"Africa needs a leader of your calibre, one with the courage to challenge the status quo, the wisdom to unite our people, and the foresight to champion the transformative policies that will propel our continent forward," Owino said.
He also wished Odinga success in the race, noting that his victory would be a win for all of Africa.
Succeed Moussa Faki
Odinga is aiming to succeed Moussa Faki as chairperson of the African Union Commission in what is set to be one of the most important diplomatic challenges of his career.
The election will see Odinga compete against Djibouti's Foreign Affairs Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar's former Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato.
At least 49 heads of state and government will gather for the 38th Ordinary Summit to cast their votes.
Odinga has garnered significant support from various political figures, including President William Ruto, his former rival who has now become a strong ally and is actively campaigning for his candidacy.
The backing from a wide range of influential leaders has further solidified Odinga's position as a leading contender for this prestigious role.
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