Ruto to launch Kenya's AUC campaign as Raila quits domestic politics

Kenyan President William Ruto is set to officially launch Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission (AUC) campaign on August 27, where Odinga will face competition from three other candidates, top diplomat Musalia Mudavadi announced on Wednesday afternoon.

Mudavadi emphasised that President Ruto will lead the effort to secure this influential position for Odinga, highlighting the former Prime Minister’s extensive experience and his comprehensive manifesto.

“It is programmed that next week on August 27, President Ruto will be formally launching the candidacy of the Kenyan candidate in the name of Raila Odinga,” Mudavadi stated in a joint-presser with Odinga.

According to Mudavadi, Odinga’s manifesto focuses on critical issues such as climate action, infrastructure development, and youth inclusion—areas expected to resonate with many African leaders.

Mudavadi expressed confidence in Kenya’s chances of securing the post, with the election scheduled for February 2025.

This event will mark the first public meeting between Ruto and Raila concerning the AU elections since Raila’s candidature was officially submitted in Addis Ababa in July.

The event is also expected to unveil the government team that will assist Raila’s campaign and disclose the funds allocated for the effort, which Mudavadi indicated would be significant.

Raila, aiming to succeed Chadian Moussa Faki as AUC Chairperson, also announced that he would not be heavily involved in Kenyan politics moving forward.

Responding to a question from the Eastleigh Voice about whether his focus on the continent might give the impression that he’s still entangled in domestic politics, Raila clarified that his attention would be on the AUC campaign.

“It is a transitional phase from active participation in Kenyan politics to moving towards African continental politics,” Raila remarked, noting that while he is involved in the campaign, it does not mean he is abandoning Kenya. “I am not going to be very active in Kenyan politics henceforth, as I continue to focus my attention on the continental campaign,” he added.

Moussa Faki’s term as AUC Chair expires at the beginning of next year.

With the geographic rotation system, it is considered Eastern Africa’s turn, and four countries have already submitted their bids for the position.