Why Somalia's President missed launch of Raila's AUC campaign- Ruto

President William Ruto addressed the absence of Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud at the launch of Raila Odinga's campaign for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairpersonship on Tuesday. Several East African leaders graced the event held at State House, Nairobi, in support of Odinga's bid for the prestigious continental position.

During his remarks, President Ruto shared that he had received a personal phone call from President Hassan. The Somali leader expressed his regret for not being able to attend the event due to "unavoidable circumstances." Despite his absence, President Hassan apologised and reiterated his support for Odinga's candidacy.

"I had sent an invitation to the Somalia president, and he confirmed yesterday that he would not attend," President Ruto said. "He called me and explained that due to circumstances beyond his control, he could not be here today."

The event was attended by several prominent East African leaders, including Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, and Salva Kiir of South Sudan. Also present were Burundi's Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, all showing their support for Odinga's campaign.

President Ruto expressed his support for Odinga's candidacy, highlighting Odinga's credentials and commitment to Africa's progress.

"I know that Raila Odinga not only possesses the requisite credentials but he is also the ideal candidate to lead the AUC. Accordingly, Kenya endorses his candidature unreservedly and we commit wholeheartedly to support his candidature, vision, and leadership," he said.

Hon. @RailaOdinga embodies solid knowledge, experience and a deep understanding of African affairs and global dynamics.

He is a visionary Pan-African, a towering statesman and veteran mobiliser for change. In addition, he is also a bold leader who will give Africa a much-needed… pic.twitter.com/BKFFLbHHuy

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) August 27, 2024

Ruto highlighted Kenya's proactive role in advancing Africa's development and stressed the importance of institutional reforms within the African Union. He described Odinga's candidacy as a natural extension of Kenya's commitment to Pan-African unity and transformation.

Samia announced her country's decision to endorse Odinga's candidacy stating, "Tanzania is fully behind Raila Odinga as our candidate for the African Union Commission."

Burundi's Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca echoed similar sentiments, expressing his country's support for Odinga.

"We know Raila Odinga has the skills and profile to fulfil his task at the AU Commission," he said, reaffirming Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye's backing.

Museveni shared a conversation he had with a candidate from Djibouti. Museveni recounted, "A young man from Djibouti came to tell me he was their candidate. We had a chat, took some photos, and shared a cup of tea. But I told him straight—I'm going to Kenya to support Raila because he's the right man for this job."

The launch of Raila's campaign for the AUC chairpersonship marks a significant step in the race for leadership at the African Union. With strong endorsements from key East African leaders, Odinga's bid has gained substantial momentum